Lorne Lavine, DMD, founder and president of The Digital Dentist, has more than 30 years invested in the dental and dental technology fields. A graduate of USC, he earned his DMD from Boston University and completed his residency at the Eastman Dental Center in Rochester, N.Y. He received his specialty training at the University of Washington and went into private practice in Vermont until moving to California in 2002 to establish TDD, a company that focuses on the specialized technological and HIPAA needs of the dental community. He can be reached at drlavine@thedigitaldentists.com or 866-204-3398.

Starting the Year With Good Cybersecurity. Image credit: © Leonardo – stock.adobe.com

Traditionally, I have devoted the first column of the year to coming up with a set of resolutions for the new year—things offices should be doing and reevaluating to start off on the right foot. This year will be no different.

One of the challenges many practices face when it comes to technology systems is that when things are working as expected, they tend not to think about them or do a deeper dive into those systems. This is like the bombed-out tooth with subgingival decay; even though the crown may look perfectly normal, there are problems under the surface that need to be identified and resolved. So, in that spirit, I wanted to give dental offices a high-level overview of what they can and should do to be more proactive. A deeper dive into these areas will appear in future issues.

Strive to become more compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). I have been lecturing on and writing about HIPAA for almost 15 years, but for reasons that are unclear, many practices do not take HIPAA compliance seriously. I often hear from dentists who do not believe they are at risk, or they cannot justify the costs, or have numerous other reasons for deciding to put HIPAA compliance on the back burner.

Speaking to my clients who have gone through HIPAA audits, this approach is not in your best interests. HIPAA audits are no joke; even first-time offenses can draw fines of $50,000 to $100,000, and if it is determined that there was willful neglect, those fines can be raised exponentially.

You would not treat a patient without diagnosing and treatment planning first; HIPAA is no different. Do a formal risk assessment annually and develop a HIPAA management plan to address issues you find. Then resolve those issues, because knowing what they are is just half the battle.

Make sure your backup and disaster recovery system is intact and working. One thing I highly recommend is doing regular test restores of your data; I have seen many instances in which the software verified that the backup was working when in fact it was not. There are plenty of ways to do a test restore. One I have always recommended is to just restore on a laptop or home PC.

The other reason I recommend test restores is that you want to see how long it takes to be up and running from a server going down. This should be measured in minutes or an hour or 2, not days. You can run this test by simply turning off your server and seeing how quickly you can be functional again.

Get a better handle on your cybersecurity. As I have mentioned in many previous articles, ransomware is the biggest threat to dental offices and pretty much any other industry—more than the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, more than insurance, more than anything. Within seconds, you can lose access to everything you spent decades building.

You need to have a plan in place to protect your practice from ransomware. Typically, this would include a business-class firewall, antiransomware software, and a new technique I discussed last year called application whitelisting.

Ignoring your information technology systems and hoping that they are working well is not a long-term solution for dental offices. I recommend doing a reevaluation on a quarterly basis but if that does not work, then doing it at the beginning of the year is always a great idea.

Articles

Here are ways to ensure you begin 2024 on a good foot regarding technology systems in the dental practice. 

Starting the Year With Good Cybersecurity

OraBio Unlocks Better Dental Pain Management with Periovance Oral Rinse. Image credit: © OraBio

Oral health company OraBio has announced the general availability of Periovance Oral Rinse. This new product, described as an all-natural liquid anesthetic, aims to provide dental professionals with a convenient, efficient, and effective solution for alleviating and managing patient pain both within and outside their offices, according to a press release from the company.

"Patient comfort is an important priority for clinicians because it helps them provide better care and keep patients coming back for return visits," Mark DeTorre, Vice President of Marketing at OraBio, said in the press release. "Studies show that 36% of dental patients experience anxiety or fear, which can significantly affect their appointment attendance and oral care habits. Periovance Oral Rinse delivers versatile pain relief, enabling hygienists and dentists to rethink and evolve how they deliver care both in the chair and at home."

Periovance Oral Rinse is said to offer full-mouth pain relief within 60 seconds of swishing. With a single dose providing up to 2 hours of pain relief, hygienists can now efficiently treat a broader range of oral conditions, minimizing interruptions. Additionally, patients can use Periovance Oral Rinse at home as part of a treatment protocol or post-procedure pain management plan.

The versatility of Periovance Oral Rinse extends to various dental applications, including:

Gingivitis and periodontitis, scaling and root planing, dentures, orthodontic discomfort, oral mucositis, aphthous ulcers, and erosive lichen planus. Each application presents unique circumstances and hurdles for patients and practitioners, which Periovance Oral Rinse can solve.

Periovance Oral Rinse features an alcohol-free formula containing key ingredients Benzocaine, Maltodextrin, Aloe Vera Extracts, and Xylitol. These components work synergistically to provide fast pain relief, reduce severity, and enhance the overall patient experience.

Dental professionals and patients can purchase Periovance Oral Rinse by visiting the 

. The release of Periovance Oral Rinse is said to mark a significant advancement in dental pain management, promising improved patient outcomes, and a more comfortable dental experience.

This new oral rinse can assist dental professionals who are treating patients with a variety of different procedures, mitigating pain through its unique alcohol-free formula. 

OraBio Unlocks Better Dental Pain Management with Periovance Oral Rinse

Sterilizer Leader W&H Now a 2024 OSAP Super Sponsor | Image Credit: © W&H 

Dental manufacturer W&H, well known as a pioneer in sterilization, has become a new 2024 OSAP Super Sponsor, providing support to the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP), a nonprofit membership association for oral healthcare professionals.

W&H’s goal is to continuously develop state-of-the-art technology and tools designed to make dental practices’ work safer, more efficient, and more patient friendly. Their recent sponsorship with OSAP is another step toward that goal, and further solidifies their mission and commitment to educate, advocate and communicate to the dental community the importance of proper hygiene and sterilization in their practice workflow for the safety and benefit of their staff and their patients.This move aligns well with W&H as the company has been advocating for years the importance of effective infection prevention with the development of their AIMS workflow microsite.

“We are very excited to become a Super Sponsor in support of OSAP, given our strong reputation in the dental industry for our passion in educating the dental community on the critical importance of proper sterilization and vigorous focus on continued innovation,” says Rick Pinero, general manager for W&H’s Dental Equipment Business Unit, in a press release announcing the sponsorship.“W&H prides itself in developing the highest quality, state-of-the-art technology and solutions such as our sterilizers, and we are proud to join OSAP in their critical mission of dental infection prevention and safety.”

Several years ago, W&H developed a comprehensive and interactive microsite for Advanced Infection Prevention Management Solutions (AIMS). The valuable resource for the dental professional community features sections on used items, cleaning steps, white papers that can be downloaded, and more.

This workflow microsite offers key steps to successful infection prevention, correct reprocessing, and hygiene management. It is continuously updated with the latest findings and key information. You can visit the site by 

Both of W&H’s sterilizers offer a unique feature of fresh water for every cycle (never recycled water) and closed-door drying which are critical in effective infection prevention. They also both are designed to offer high capacity, and fast cycle times for maximum efficiency.

as one of the Top 5 Infection Control Products for 2023, and is the only sterilizer selected for this category.

was recently awarded a 2024 Preferred Product in the sterilizer category by 

for its outstanding performance and 4.5 star rating by its clinical evaluators.

OSAP, the only nonprofit membership association for oral healthcare professionals that focuses exclusively on infection prevention and patient and provider safety, also announced this week the commencement of its 2024 Webinar Series. The 2024 OSAP Webinar Series aims for accessibility while maintaining high-quality education for dental professionals. The series caters to the needs of participants who can now hone their knowledge and skills without leaving the comfort of their homes or offices, OSAP states.

To read the full article on the 2024 Webinar Series, 

The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention announces that the dental company is the newest Super Sponsor for 2024.

Sterilizer Leader W&H Now a 2024 OSAP Super Sponsor

Join the Sanders sisters and Dr Ellie Campbell as they discuss the human heart, and just how interconnected it is with full body and oral health.

Dr Campbell has been Board certified in Family Medicine for over 30 years, and is also certified by the American Board of Integrative Medicine. Trained at the Medical College of Georgia, in the Bale Doneen Method, and through the Cardiometabolic Program at the Institute for Functional Medicine, she is an expert in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction. A solo physician for 18 years, she has specialty interests in interdisciplinary collaboration, reversing chronic disease, natural treatments for high blood pressure, and the oral-systemic connections. She has been an advisory board member to The International College of Integrative Medicine and the American Academy for Oral & Systemic Health. She is an author, mentor, and international speaker who enjoys live theater, gardening, healthy cooking, hiking, travel, and playtime with her husband, three adult daughters and 2 100-lb dogs.


https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550068367157

https://www.facebook.com/campbellfamilymed

Dr Campbell’s book available on Amazon: 

The Blood Pressure Blueprint: THE holistic guide to defeating hypertension

Floss and Flip-Flops with the Sanders sisters features hosts dental hygienist and speaker Katrina M. Sanders, RDH, and podiatrist Dr Elizabeth Sanders, DPM. Together, the sisters discuss the oral-systemic link and its impact—from your teeth down to your toes. The podcast is produced monthly by Dental Products Report® and Modern Hygienist®, in partnership with The Sanders sisters.

For additional content for dental professionals visit DPR and MH at 

.

Katrina Sanders, RDH, can be reached at:

Podcasts

Floss & Flip Flops – Episode 26 – Heart Health Month with Dr Ellie Campbell

OSAP Launches 2024 Webinar Series Elevating Infection Prevention and Safety Education. Image credit: © The Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention

In a move geared towards advancing infection prevention and safety education in the oral health care sector, the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention (OSAP) has announced the commencement of its 2024 Webinar Series.

Amidst the backdrop of the digital age and a growing emphasis on virtual learning, the 2024 OSAP Webinar Series aims for accessibility while maintaining high-quality education for dental professionals, according to a press release from the group. The series caters to the needs of participants who can now hone their knowledge and skills without leaving the comfort of their homes or offices.

Designed to empower dental professionals and elevate patient care standards, the series covers a diverse range of topics that promise to resonate with individuals at various stages of their careers. Participants can expect to gain valuable insights that will not only contribute to their professional development but also earn them continuing education (CE) credits, an essential component for maintaining professional licensure.

OSAP Executive Director, Michelle Lee, CPC, extended a warm invitation to the entire oral health care community in the press release. Lee emphasized the evolving landscape of education and the value of digital learning, particularly in the context of the last few years. She underlines the series' commitment to fostering a culture of safety within the oral health care community.

"We encourage everyone in the oral health care community to participate. The last few years have emphasized the value of digital learning, and this series offers a variety of topics which aim to promote and inspire a culture of safety, so there is something for everyone. We are also thankful to our Super Sponsors for providing educational funding enabling us to provide relevant and impactful digital content to the oral healthcare community," Lee said in the press release.

One notable aspect of the 2024 OSAP Webinar Series is its accessibility to all participants at no cost. The series aims to break down financial barriers to education, ensuring that all dental professionals can benefit from the valuable content.

Each webinar in the series is accredited by the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program and will provide participants with 1 CE credit per webinar. Additionally, for those unable to attend the live sessions, all webinars will be recorded, allowing for convenient later viewing.

The lineup for the 2024 OSAP Webinar Series is available in OSAP's Event Calendar, which can be 

, offering a glimpse into the topics that will be explored throughout the series. To learn more about OSAP, visit the 

New continuing education webinars covering a range of infection control and safety topics are now available from the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention at no cost. 

OSAP Launches 2024 Webinar Series Elevating Infection Prevention and Safety Education 

Image Credit: © Association of Dental Support Organization

The Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO) has released its latest 

report today, shedding light on 3 pivotal trends anticipated to impact the industry throughout 2024. The report emphasizes persistent challenges in recruiting dental hygienists and assistants, a surge in diversity among emerging dentists, and a generational shift in dentists' practice preferences, with a notable surge in the growth of group practices expected to persist in the coming year.

Titled "State of Dentistry: Economic and Demographic Trends Impacting the Industry in 2024," the report stems from extensive research conducted over multiple years by the non-profit research institute RTI International, commissioned by the ADSO. Since 2018, RTI's comprehensive work, backed by various sources and methodologies, has provided a comprehensive overview of dental industry trends nationwide.

“From workforce challenges and cost pressures to increased diversity and an evolution in how dentists practice, 2024 is already off to a quick start during a time of unprecedented change for our industry. We commissioned this report to provide professionals across our industry with the insights they need to successfully navigate this dynamic environment as we all work to expand access to quality dental care across our nation,” Andrew Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the ADSO, says in a press release.

Key trends unveiled in the report include:

• Hygiene Workforce Challenges: The report highlights bottlenecks in dental hygiene programs exacerbating industry-wide workforce challenges. Factors such as program closures, stricter acceptance criteria, and limited available seats have led to a decline in acceptance rates to 25%, down from 31% a decade ago. The Health Policy Institute (HPI) notes that vacant positions in dental hygiene and dental assisting have reduced dental practice capacity by an estimated 10% annually.

Smith emphasizes in the press release, “It’s up to us to ensure the pipeline for dental hygienists and assistants is sufficient to meet the growing demand for allied dental health professions. At the ADSO, we are continuing to work with our partners across the industry to strengthen the employment pipeline for dentists, hygienists, and assistants so every American has access to quality dental care when they need it.”

• Increased Diversity in Dentistry: The report highlights progress in increasing diversity within the dental profession, with the 2022 graduating class of new dentists being the most racially and ethnically diverse in history, with 48% of students identifying as non-white. Women constituted 53% of graduates. Despite this progress, challenges persist, as indicated by an HPI report revealing a relatively stable share of Black students from 2005 to 2020.

“This report shows we are making progress in increasing diversity across our profession,” he adds in the press release. “While there is still more to do, I’m proud to say that dental support organizations are leading the charge, with greater numbers of women and dentists of color choosing DSOs over private practice.”

• Generational Shift in Practice Preferences: The report underscores a transformative shift from solo practices to group practices among dentists. In 2023, only 36% of dentists were actively practicing in solo setups, with the majority opting for group practices. Notably, 13% reported affiliation with a DSO, with younger dentists driving this shift.

“This move from solo practice to group or DSO dentistry, combined with advances in technology, medical-dental integration, and evolving patient expectations, are revolutionizing the industry as we know it – and DSOs are excited to be on the front lines during this transformational moment in our industry,” Smith adds in the press release.

Beyond these headline trends, the RTI report also presents additional insights, including data on dentist supply growth, a decline in dental visits correlating with worsening oral health, a substantial increase in dental school graduates, and an exploration of the cost challenges faced by dentists when establishing new dental practices.

Obstacles include shortage of hygienists and assistants, increased diversity of new dentists, generational change in practice preference among topline trends.

State of Dentistry: ADSO-Commissioned Report Unveils Economic and Demographic Trends Shaping Dental Industry in 2024

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.  

Do I Need AI to Do My Job? | Image Credit: © Adisak – stock.adobe.com

On one side of the aisle, you will find some patients and even clinicians who may not believe the time has come for artificial intelligence (AI) to play a big role in dentistry. On the other side, there are plenty of early adopters and supporters.

Although we can debate how much of an impact AI can and should have when it comes to providing oral health care, by now everyone should realize that the technology has its place. It can help in many areas, without removing the need for human interaction and the brains and hands of a trained clinician.

Lorne Lavine, DMD, founder and president of The Digital Dentist, says AI is already a big part of dentistry in terms of administrative tasks and when it comes to diagnostics and predictive analytics. “What I’m seeing out there [are] 2 main areas where I think AI is being applied,” Dr Lavine says. “One [is] on the clinical front and one [is] on the administrative. So, clinical and nonclinical, it’s there to help. There’s no doubt that people can and probably should take advantage of what it offers. But I think it’s also important to understand that there are some limitations.”

Florian Hillen, CEO of VideaHealth, makes clear that he believes AI technology—including his company’s Videa Dental Assist—has its place but will never take away the need for a clinician to deliver care to patients. “There is a common misconception that AI is intended to replace the expert, which in our industry implies AI will replace the dental clinician. That is not true,” Hillen says. “Dental AI is not a replacement for the clinician; it is a powerful tool that empowers the clinician and helps to drive better patient experiences.”

Dr Lavine likens today’s clinical uses for AI to a second opinion or a second set of eyes when making a diagnosis. “If you use it as a tool, I think the second opinion is great,” he says. “You know, just another set of eyes to look at it and to help your decision-making process. But at the end of the day, you can’t replace 4 years of dental school, your experience with patients, and…if you specialized in 20 years of practice, you just can’t replace that.”

It seems as though a new company or software update pops up almost every week boasting the latest in AI benefits for dentists and their patients. Some forms of the technology have been around for quite some time. In recent years, companies such as Overjet, Pearl, and VideaHealth have received FDA approvals for expanded capabilities in dentistry. These companies can now assist clinicians in diagnosing x-rays and in recommending treatment plans for patients, with CBCT image diagnosis also part of the AI future.

“AI has been around in health care products since the ’50s and ’60s. There was a program developed in the ’90s called Logicon Caries Detector [Carestream Dental] that has been around forever,” Dr Lavine says. “But for whatever reason, in the last 3, 4, or 5 years, it’s taken off and now you have…Overjet and Pearl and all these different companies coming out.”

Overjet features AI algorithms that can detect calculus, cavities, bone loss, and other oral health problems. AI will play an increasingly important role in helping dentists with predictive analytics, as these algorithms will be able to analyze patient data including medical history, lifestyle, and genetics to predict the risk of developing dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, Overjet has reported.

In December 2023, Pearl announced an exclusive partnership with Patterson Dental. The collaboration aims to distribute Pearl’s innovative Second Opinion® and Practice Intelligence® software solutions and integrate the AI pathology detection feature set of Second Opinion within Patterson’s Eaglesoft dental practice management software. Pearl’s Practice Intelligence platform extends AI capabilities beyond the dental chair by synthesizing AI clinical findings with patient treatment data automatically synchronized from practice management systems.

Videa Dental Assist uses AI technology to assist clinicians in diagnosing x-rays and in recommending treatment plans for patients. | Image Credit: © VideaHealth

VideaHealth, meanwhile, recently achieved a milestone with the FDA granting 510(k) clearance for its latest product, Videa Dental Assist. The clearance includes more than 30 AI algorithms, expanding AI detections to cover all the most common dental diseases, according to the company, which has partnered with the large dental support organization Heartland Dental.

“AI technology is revolutionizing dentistry by enhancing early detection and intervention for patients. From identifying routine issues like cavities to pinpointing more serious conditions such as periodontal disease or bone loss associated with illnesses like diabetes, dental AI technologies excel in reading x-rays and learning to discern areas of disease like decay, lesions, and bone loss,” says Heartland Dental Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations and Clinical Director Tim Quirt, DDS, MBA. “While AI empowers dentists with valuable insights, it is crucial to emphasize that it is not a replacement for doctors. It operates as a partner, allowing dentists to validate and strengthen their analyses, ensuring they maintain the ultimate decision-making authority over both diagnosis and treatment.”

VideaHealth’s Hillen predicts the technology will be used by most dental practices. “Using dental AI alongside dentists and hygienists will become the standard of care within the next 2 to 3 years,” he says. “We see that dentists supported by AI are more accurate, efficient, and able to diagnose issues sooner. And they can spend more time interacting with and evaluating their patients vs prioritizing x-ray analysis. AI is also becoming a competitive differentiator. Data shows patients are more open to taking action with an AI-validated diagnosis and are interested in practices using dental AI.

“Dental AI will ultimately impact the adoption of AI in health care at large,” he adds. “This is the first time patients are interacting with health-related AI directly, and as they become more comfortable with those experiences, it will open up their comfort in other areas as well.”

Diagnosis and predictive analytics are headline grabbers when it comes to AI, but the technology also changes the way many front office tasks are accomplished. “From an administrative standpoint, we’re just seeing a ton of stuff, whether it’s appointment scheduling, appointment reminders…basically managing your schedules if you have less waiting time, follow up with patients, and handle a lot of that heavy lifting that we don’t need AI necessarily for…there are third-party programs that have been doing that for a long time, but we’re certainly starting to see a lot of that as well,” Dr Lavine says.

It is important not to lose the individualized touch that has helped many practices grow through friendly relationships with patients. “I was a periodontist for a lot of years, and when they came in, they were greeted by name and they talked about their family, their kids, whatever,” Dr Lavine explains. “They’d talk with the staff as well and they felt like they were being taken care of. We’ve lost a lot of that in medicine and in dentistry.”

Speaking of staff, having everything run smoothly is critical for practice success. Dental SaaS Consulting helps practices incorporate the latest in AI technology and software in efficient ways.

The symbiotic relationship between AI and SaaS not only elevates user experiences but enables businesses to transcend the limitations of conventional software models, says Monique Kramer, CEO and founder of Dental SaaS Consulting. “In this latest AI era, the collaboration of AI and SaaS creates an opportunity for innovation where users can access cutting-edge technologies effortlessly, unburdened by the complexities of software installation and maintenance,” Kramer says. “This narrative allows a paradigm shift, where the strengths of AI and SaaS combined are a future of seamless, intelligent, and accessible software solutions.”

Achieving success in any technology hinges on the end user—the staff, according to Kramer. The pivotal factors for success lie in staff education, staff acceptance, and seamless integration into daily workﬂows. These areas are “crucial to utilizing the full potential of AI SaaS, streamlining processes, reducing time commitments, and enhancing overall operational efficiencies,” she adds.

Cloud dental software company Planet DDS believes AI is a perfect fit for automating tasks that do not require a clinician’s interpretation or a team member’s decision-making skills to complete.

“The tasks within dental software that are most ripe for automation are those that don’t require human interpretation or judgment to complete. Some examples of tasks that are currently being automated are the posting of electronic remittances from carriers to the patient’s ledger by matching claims to 835s [also known as Electronic Remittance Advice (ERA)] and the automatically generated texts to patients to schedule if an office misses a call,” says Planet DDS CEO Eric Giesecke. “In the future, it is possible that software providers will leverage artificial intelligence to do things like better optimize office schedules based on predictive attendance, similar to what airlines do to ensure that their flights are full.”

Today, most automation is being completed by bots, or programs that imitate users to complete some of these repetitive tasks en masse, Giesecke explains. However, he says the frequency and pace with which bots operate with a software application poses new and unique challenges to the industry.

“Because bots can perform tasks with great frequency, they can have a negative impact on the performance software applications, or how fast pages load for a user,” he states. “Bots can also introduce HIPAA [Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act]risk since they lack human judgment when deciding how to handle personal health information (PHI). Because of these concerns, we’ll likely see greater throttling of bot access by software providers.”

Automation in dental also is being driven by decision support models applied to dental images. Models are currently reviewing real-time or historical images to aid providers in their diagnoses, Giesecke says. “The applications of these models are truly in their infancy; the next phase of AI in dental will likely involve a deeper integration of these findings, to include the surfacing of treatment opportunities based on x-rays, prior treatment plans, and insurance coverage and eligibility of the patient,” the Planet DDS CEO predicts.

Owandy's latest intraoral scanner, the Owandy-IOS, incorporates AI-enhanced fast-scan technology. | Image Credit: © Owandy Radiology

Owandy Radiology’s latest intraoral scanner, the Owandy-IOS, incorporates AI-enhanced fast-scan technology. The company uses AI to diagnose, help deliver improved patient outcomes, streamline workflows, and improve treatment plan acceptance, says Owandy Radiology Vice President of Sales and Marketing Boris Loyez.

It all starts with a 2D, 3D, or cephalometric image where advanced algorithms automatically reduce metal artifacts when the image is taken (Automar Technology), and advanced AI modules assist in making the images as clear as possible with minimal exposure (fast-scan technology, multiple fields of view: 5x5-12x10 cm), the company says.It could also be an intraoral scan with the new Owandy-IOS, where AI allows it to be fast (60-second full arch), accurate (20 µm), and true to life (true color technology).

“After imaging comes the prosthetic planning with our software, which auto-matches STL and DICOM files in seconds with advanced AI modules for a streamlined workflow in a unique environment [3D scan, imaging, prosthetic planning],” Loyez explains. “The final phase is the export of the files to the practitioners’ lab or their own milling or printing unit (exocad format). Thanks to our technologies, they [clinicians] can focus on spending time with their patients and their practice.”

Loyez says a number of clinician roles will never be replaced by AI, including complex treatment planning, critical decision-making, patient consultation and empathy, and intricate manual procedures involving precise manual dexterity such as complex restorative work, intricate surgeries, endodontics, and prosthodontics that necessitate a dentist’s skill and experience.

Dr Lavine agrees. “I think where AI comes in is the science standpoint, and with parts of it they do a good job of that,” he says. “But as any practicing dentists know, there’s a lot of it that’s art…when you’ve got that explorer tip in your hand and you’re exploring that occlusal pit. It really is an art to decide, ‘Hey, am I going to just watch this? How well did it stick?’ I think there’s no doubt that AI will at some point, try to standardize that as well.”

But for now, there is a lot to be said for clinical judgment. Although AI has gotten quite good at primary treatment plans based on what the information says is the ideal treatment, there are things only a human can interpret.

“Patients are humans, and whether it’s finances or time considerations or esthetics or whatever…they’re not always going to be able to follow through with our recommendations,” Dr Lavine says. “That’s where I think judgment and experience will come into play more, to be able to infer and to be able to decide on a secondary treatment plan or alternative options that AI may not be so good at being able to come up with….It’s going to continue to grow, no doubt, and I think a lot of stuff is just going to get better.”

As the technology improves the capabilities will grow, but Dr Lavine does not ever see the day when there is no need for a dentist’s expertise.

“We’ll never get rid of that clinical judgment component of it, but…the diagnostic part of that, I think, will continue to get better,” he says. “The treatment planning, the predictive analysis, I think all of that will continue to improve over the next 5, 10 years and l think there’s going to be a ton of competition.”

Patients may grow to expect and enjoy AI assistance, but will want a dentist they trust to be in control of their oral health care. “There are so many things that AI can do but I don’t think we’re ever going to replace the operator. The dentist will be the one [who] knows their past history, their dental history, their fears, their time they can sit in the chair…financial considerations,” Dr Lavine says.

Today’s technology can help clinicians make diagnoses, plan treatments, and run practices more efficiently, but some tasks will always require the human touch and experience. 

Do I Need AI to Do My Job?

Amann Girrbach’s New Ceramill Matron Milling Machine Promises "Serious Fun"

Amann Girrbach’s new Ceramill Matron marks the advent of the first fifth generation milling machine in the market, and the company’s latest offering is loaded with enhancements designed to provide “serious fun.”

The milling machine boasts new features and improvements in comparison to its predecessors, and Ceramill Matron ensures outstanding precision, excellent milling results, and maximum intuitive handling, according to Amann Girrbach. The Ceramill Matron is engineered to work with a diverse range of materials, particularly excelling in the carbide sector. Its integrated Performance Blank Changer facilitates autonomous order processing with the capability to handle up to 8 blanks, seamlessly integrating into the digital workflow.

It is designed for users who demand the highest standards in quality, efficiency, and derive enjoyment from their craftsmanship. Equipped with the latest tool technology and a 3 mm or 6 mm milling shaft, it is optimized for the precise and swift processing of carbide.

"The Ceramill Matron offers a completely new digital experience and achieves results with a precision that is on a par with any milling center. It can even be used to effortlessly machine hard metals such as titanium or cobalt-chrome up to 16 mm in-house," Daniel Leitner, product manager at Amann Girrbach, explains in a press release. 


Featuring a 45° arrangement of the A/B axes, the Ceramill Matron ensures high rigidity and accuracy with vibration-damping properties during the milling process. Leitner adds in the press release, "With the Ceramill Matron, we achieve unprecedented running smoothness, positively impacting surface quality and the service life of milling cutters."

The Ceramill Matron is designed for users who demand the highest standards in quality, efficiency, and derive enjoyment from their craftsmanship. | Image Credit: © Amann Girrbach

The 5-axis plus technology allows operating at extreme angles, ensuring high precision even in pronounced undercuts. The SnapMag, a magnetically interchangeable 11-position tool carrier, facilitates quick and convenient tool changes. Intelligent preloading, in conjunction with RFID technology, enables seamless processing of various materials and indications without the need for frequent tool changes.

The 8-fold blank changer enables fully automated work processes in dental production, with intuitive control guided by a high-resolution 21.5-inch display. This display is designed to streamline user guidance through all work steps, contributing to a more enjoyable working experience. Integrating the Ceramill Matron into the digital workflow is simple, making it an ideal product for dental practices and laboratories looking to advance their digitization efforts while demanding the highest standards of quality and cost-effectiveness, Amann Girrbach states.

“It is precisely this combination of performance and joy in craftsmanship that we wish to convey with our campaign slogan 'Serious Fun'," emphasizes Leitner in the press release.

First-time users are also enthusiastic about the new Ceramill Matron, the company says. MDT Florian Barthel from HAL-Dent Zahntechnik GmbH in Halle (Germany) says in the press release: "For me, the Ceramill Matron can be described in 4 words: intuitive, powerful, trend-setting and multifunctional. For me, it closes the gap between the Ceramill Motion 3 and the Ceramill Matik in terms of design and is also absolutely future-proof due to its openness to future developments."

Zeller Zahntechnik in Ulm (Germany) points out the benefit of the milling machine’s smooth running.

"As a laboratory that has already worked extensively with cobalt-chrome, we are very impressed by the smoothness of the Ceramill Matron when milling this extremely hard material,” he says in the press release. “This results in long milling cutter service lives and hence a plus in the efficient use of resources."

The company launches a fifth generation milling machine with several enhancements designed to ensure great precision and milling results, and maximum intuitive handling.

Sustainability and environmental awareness have become more prevalent in the dental industry in recent years, and a new partnership just announced is designed to take steps to further these movements, specifically when it comes to recycling amalgam.

Leading amalgam recycling companyDental Recycling North America (DRNA) has announced its strategic partnership with SDI, a dental materials and technology company. This collaboration brings with it a significant step toward promoting amalgam recycling and environmental responsibility within the industry.

"At SDI, we understand the significance of responsible dental waste management. Our partnership with DRNA allows us to provide our customers with a simple and effective solution to ensure compliance with regulations while contributing to a healthier environment," Samantha Cheetham, managing director/Chief Executive Officer of SDI, says in a press release while highlighting the importance of amalgam recycling.

The recycling of amalgam is a critical aspect of dental practice compliance, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of mercury-containing amalgam waste. The strategic joining of DRNA and SDI underscores both companies' commitment to sustainability and their dedication to supporting dental professionals in meeting regulatory requirements.

DRNA's CEO Marc M. Sussman expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership opportunity, saying in the press release, "We are thrilled to partner with SDI, a company renowned for its commitment to dental innovation and sustainability. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to simplify compliance for dental practices across the globe."

DRNA has been at the forefront of amalgam recycling and dental compliance solutions for over a decade. Founded with a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, the company has consistently provided innovative products and services to help dental practices meet regulatory requirements while minimizing their environmental impact.

The recycling company’s comprehensive amalgam recycling program is designed to simplify compliance and allowing clinicians to focus on patient care while ensuring they adhere to regulatory guidelines. DRNA provides amalgam separators, cartridges, kits, and recycling services used in dental practices across the United States.

SDI is a global leader in dental materials and technology with a rich history dating back to 1972. It has consistently led the way in dental research and product development.

Amalgam recycling plays a crucial role in dental practice compliance, particularly in light of the Minamata Treaty, which calls for the eventual phase-out or reduction of mercury used in dental amalgam, the press release states. By recycling amalgam waste, dental practices can protect the environment and ensure they are in line with regulatory requirements.

Customers are invited to participate in this initiative by signing up for a simple amalgam recycling solution provided by DRNA, according to SDI. Dental practices can place all amalgam waste in the provided recycling kit designed to make compliance simple.

To encourage immediate action, the dental manufacturer’s customers can receive a 20% discount by using promo code SDISAVE20 when signing up for the program. This limited time offer underscores the importance of acting now to comply with regulations and to begin protecting the environment right away.

Together, DRNA and SDI look to support clinicians with compliance and sustainability and aim to make a positive impact on the dental industry and the environment.

The 2 companies are collaborating on promoting amalgam recycling and environmental responsibility within the dental industry.

In Support of Amalgam Recycling, SDI is Partnering with DRNA

Planet DDS, the provider of cloud-based dental software, has announced the attainment of the System and Organization Controls (SOC) 2 Type 2 attestation. This marks a significant achievement, positioning Planet DDS as a provider that can meet new standards across its suite of products, including Denticon practice management, Cloud 9 orthodontic practice management, Apteryx imaging, and Legwork solutions.

The third-party SOC 2 Type 2 certification verifies the sustained effectiveness of enterprise-level data security, availability, confidentiality, processing integrity, and privacy controls implemented by Planet DDS, according to a press release from the company. This certification is particularly noteworthy in dentistry, where dental service organizations, state and federally funded public health clinics, and other enterprises seek heightened confidence in vendors, especially for mission-critical software like practice management solutions.

Eric Giesecke, CEO of Planet DDS, expressed the significance of this milestone in the press release, stating, "Achieving SOC 2 Type 2 compliance is more than a badge of honor for us. It underscores our dedication to ensuring the highest level of data security and trust for our customers. As the leader in the cloud-based dental solutions space, we believe that this achievement not only reinforces our leadership but also sets a new benchmark for the entire industry. This is especially crucial in the healthcare sector where data security and privacy are of paramount importance."

The SOC 2 Type 2 certification, unlike its Type 1 counterpart, evaluates controls over an extended period, providing a more robust and continuous assurance of Planet DDS’ commitment to the highest standards of data security and operational reliability.

Mike Gibson, CTO of Planet DDS, explained, “This rigorous SOC 2 Type 2 certification process involved meticulous assessment of our controls and operations. We were able to implement the required guidelines in an extremely short timeframe due to our company’s existing cloud-based infrastructure. Our customers can have even greater confidence in our comprehensive approach to protecting their sensitive data.”

Given the increasing frequency of cybersecurity attacks, and health care accounting for almost 80% of data breaches, the significance of robust data security measures cannot be overstated, per the press release.

In a move to educate the industry further, Planet DDS invites organizations to watch an on-demand webinar titled "

Cybersecurity in Dental: Lessons from the FBI, a Top DSO, and a Cybersecurity Firm,

" to learn about best practices for protecting both organizational and patient data.

This new certification will enable Planet DDS to meet new industry standards for data security.