Caitlin Parsons is a RDH of 15 years and chronic pain survivor turned Certified Yoga Therapist and Ergonomic Consultant for dental professionals. Caitlin helps dental professionals prevent, reduce and overcome workplace pain, manage stress, and optimize their health so they can thrive in and out of the office. She is passionate about helping dental professionals and teams optimize their health to provide better patient care and become better clinicians through her in-person and online programs, speaking, writing team experiences, and her podcast, The Aligned Hygienist (

Ergonomic Excellence: Your Roadmap to Pain-Free Dental Practice. Image credit: © Roquillo - stock.adobe.com

In the demanding world of dental hygiene, where patient care is paramount, maintaining good posture and preventing pain is often a challenge. Proper ergonomics is not just a luxury, it's a fundamental necessity for dental hygienists. In this article, I’ll discuss the importance of proper ergonomics in dental hygiene, explore the common posture-related issues that hygienists encounter, and provide tips for setting up an ergonomic workspace. I’ll review a series of postural exercises and discuss the role of ergonomic equipment in preventing MSDs. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools to prioritize your well-being, maintain good posture, and prevent pain in the dental office.

Proper ergonomics is far more than a buzzword in dental hygiene; it's a fundamental pillar of our professional well-being. As dental hygienists, we find ourselves in high-stress, high-stakes environments nearly every single day. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of appointments and procedures, it's all too easy to disregard our own physical health and comfort. Unfortunately, this can lead to a cascade of problems, from aches and discomfort to chronic pain and long-term musculoskeletal issues that affect the longevity of our careers.

Maintaining proper ergonomics isn't just a matter of comfort; it directly impacts our efficiency but, more critically, our long-term well-being. By prioritizing ergonomics, we can enhance our job performance and reduce the risk of workplace injuries. Let's journey into the world of ergonomics, where comfort and career longevity are intertwined, and where your well-being takes center stage.
 

In the dynamic work of a dental hygienist, it's easy to fall into the trap of poor posture. Over time, this can manifest in a range of common posture-related issues that dental hygienists frequently encounter. Hunched shoulders, strained necks, and aching backs become part of our daily grind. The consequences of poor posture extend beyond immediate discomfort; they can lead to debilitating pain, chronic injuries, and long-term musculoskeletal issues.¹

Dental hygienists often find themselves leaning forward or twisting their bodies to access hard-to-reach areas of the oral cavity. These contortions can result in the misalignment of the spine, pelvis, and joints, placing excessive strain on the lower back and neck. Over time, this misalignment can lead to discomfort and pain that can persist outside of work. Studies show that 91% of dental hygienists experience pain in their careers.²

Poor posture also frequently triggers musculoskeletal issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and repetitive strain injuries, all of which are common among dental hygienists.¹⁻² These conditions can be painful, debilitating, and, in some cases, necessitate time away from work for recovery. The significance of addressing these posture-related problems cannot be overstated. Neglecting them can not only jeopardize our physical well-being but also impact our ability to provide high-quality patient care.

Creating an ergonomic workspace in dentistry is akin to setting the stage for a successful performance. The layout and arrangement of your workspace can significantly impact your comfort and overall well-being during long hours in the op. While there are general guidelines for ergonomics, it's essential to remember that one size doesn't fit all. The ideal ergonomic workspace is one that's tailored to your unique needs and body mechanics.

To set the stage for a workspace, let's consider a few practical tips. Firstly, focus on the patient and practitioner chair. Dental chairs should be at a height and location that allows you to maintain a neutral posture, with your feet flat on the floor. The patient chair should be positioned at a height that keeps your forearms parallel to the ground when working. These adjustments are the foundational pillars of a comfortable and safe workspace.

Next, consider the instruments and equipment you use, and their placement in the workspace. Your tools should be within easy reach, so you don't have to strain or twist to access them. This means arranging your workspace in a way that minimizes the need for repetitive reaching or bending.

Operator positioning is another critical factor. Since ergonomics is based on the individual, it’s crucial that hygienists utilize a chair or stool that supports their individual body size and shape. Position the chair so you can maintain a natural, relaxed posture during patient care. Avoid leaning forward or twisting your body excessively, as these positions can place undue stress on your spine and muscles.

The key to creating an ergonomic workspace is to personalize it. Adjustments should cater to your unique body dimensions and movements. By customizing your workspace, you not only enhance your own comfort and efficiency but also reduce the risk of posture-related discomfort.

Dental Hygienists should focus on creating a proactive approach to maintaining good posture and preventing pain. A series of targeted exercises can work wonders in enhancing your posture, improving circulation, and relieving tension from tight, overworked muscles. The example exercises below are designed to counteract the physical demands of dental hygiene and help you maintain a balanced and healthy body.

During brief breaks or moments between patients, try gentle neck and shoulder rolls. This simple exercise helps release tension in the neck and shoulders, which is especially important for those hunched-over moments in the dental chair.

 Stand or sit up straight, then gently arch your upper back to extend your thoracic spine. This exercise counteracts the forward-leaning posture we often adopt during patient care.

 A strong core helps support your spine and maintain an upright posture. Incorporate exercises into your daily routine to bolster your core muscles.

 Dental hygienists spend a significant amount of time in a seated position. Stretch your hip flexors by lunging forward, alternating between legs. This exercise helps alleviate the tightness that can lead to poor posture.

 Open up your chest and counteract the tendency to round your shoulders with pectoral stretches. Hold your arms straight out to the sides and gently pull them back to stretch your chest muscles.

Remember that consistency is key. These exercises don't require hours of your time but can make a significant difference when done on a regular basis. Whether you choose to dedicate specific times to them or incorporate them into the small breaks throughout your day, their cumulative effects will contribute to improved posture and reduced pain.

The Role of Ergonomic Equipment in Posture

In our quest to maintain good posture and prevent pain in the dental office, we cannot overlook the pivotal role that ergonomic equipment plays. The right tools can make a significant difference in preventing discomfort and ensuring your long-term well-being as a dental hygienist.

Ergonomically designed instruments are a game-changer, created to reduce strain on your hand, wrist, and forearm muscles, allowing for a more relaxed, comfortable, and sustainable working experience. Their design minimizes repetitive stress and supports a more natural hand position, which can help prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Instruments like the Harmony Series by HuFreidy, XP Sharpen-Free by American Eagle, and Crystal HD Mirrors by Zirc.

Saddle stools are another piece of the puzzle. An ergonomic chair or stool is designed to promote healthy posture and distribute your body weight evenly. With adjustable features to accommodate your unique body dimensions, these stools help prevent lower back pain and discomfort during prolonged procedures, while allowing you to adapt your position based on the patient in your chair. Crown Seating and Brewer saddle stools are both worth exploring.

One of the most valuable pieces of equipment for dental hygienists is the use of ergonomic loupes; they not only enhance your vision but also encourage an upright working posture. By magnifying the treatment area, ergonomic loupes reduce the need to hunch over or strain your neck to see clearly, which can alleviate posture-related issues. Companies like Andau Medical and LumaDent offer great quality ergonomic loupes with excellent customer service.

In the pursuit of a thriving dental hygiene practice, we know the importance of proper ergonomics, posture, and self-care. As you navigate the path of dental hygiene, remember that prioritizing your well-being is not merely a professional prerogative but a personal commitment. In the realm of dental hygiene, where precision, patient care, and practice growth reign supreme, the pursuit of good posture and a pain-free practice is not just a possibility; it's an endeavor that elevates not only your career but your quality of life.

Cramer H, Mehling WE, Saha FJ, Dobos G, Lauche R. Postural awareness and its relation to pain: validation of an innovative instrument measuring awareness of body posture in patients with chronic pain. 

. 2018;19(1):109. Published 2018 Apr 6. doi:10.1186/s12891-018-2031-9

Saccucci M, Zumbo G, Mercuri P, et al. Musculoskeletal disorders related to dental hygienist profession. 

. 2022;20(3):571-579. doi:10.1111/idh.12596

Articles

Dentistry can be physically taxing on our bodies. Here we dive into different ways to truly reduce some of that stress on muscles and minds. 

Ergonomic Excellence: Your Roadmap to Pain-Free Dental Practice

This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from 3sixty, Roland DGA, Myerson, Convergent Dental, and Clinux.

Product Bites – December 15, 2023

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

I'm your host for this week DPR editorial director Noah Levine and on this week's podcast, we've got a quintet of new products, as we'll be covering the latest from 3Sixty, RolandDGA, Myerson, Convergent Dental, and Clinux. So no time like now, let's find out more about these products.

First up 3Sixty recently expanded their product line with an aim of helping enhance dental practice workflows. The new products include 3Sixty Crystals Aligners, 3Sixty Crowns, scalloped guides, and other guide variants. According to a company press release, these new offerings were strategically curated to elevate efficiency and empower dentists to help foster clinical versatility and patient centric approaches.

Next up Chairside Zirconia from Roland DGA. Compatible with the DGSHAPE DWX-42W series of wet mills, this new material is designed for streamlined, chairside workflows. It features an exclusive 3-layer gradient design, made up of 25% incisal 25% transition and 50% dentin translucency. This allows the material to better mimic natural tooth material. Chairside Zirconia does not require sintering after milling but still provides an average flexural strength of 500 MPa. The material aims to make a simple prep, scan, design, mill, and seat workflow possible for same day dentistry.

Meyerson Dental's new Trusana Premium Denture System is a complete solution for high quality 3D-printed dentures. Powered by the patented Trusana formulation, this digital denture solution offers high flexural strength, wear resistance, and still provides lifelike esthetics. A 1-step bonding process saves time during production and multiple shades are available for both Premium 3D Tooth Resin and Premium 3D Denture Base Resin. The Trusana Premium Denture System is available exclusively through Zhan Dental.

Next up, Convergent Dental recently announced the availability of Solea Protect, a new application for the Solea all-tissue dental laser. This application, developed after decades of research, aims to reduce mineral loss in dental enamel, providing protection against acid attacks and caries. Solea's 9.3 micron wavelength CO2 laser gently heats the surface of tooth enamel. This removes impurities and creates a strong crystallike structure that is more resistant to decay than untreated enamel.

Finally, Clinux CAD is a cloud-based CAD software application that now allows clinicians to mix and match different design methods on a tooth by tooth basis. Other newly expanded design capabilities include inlay and onlay indications and a margin function tool. With a range of flexible license options, the platform is designed to make digital dentistry easily accessible to anyone.

And that does it for this week's Product Bites from Dental Products Report. Stay up to date on all the latest dental product news by visiting dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts. I'm Noah Levine saying thanks for listening. We'll be back next week with all the latest new dental products on Product Bites from Dental Products Report.

Podcasts

Product Bites makes sure you don't miss the next innovation for your practice. This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from 3sixty, Roland DGA, Myerson, Convergent Dental, and Clinux. [4 Minutes]

Max Milz, Dentsply Sirona Group VP, Connected Technology Solutions talks about digital dentistry and connected technologies.

The Connected Future of Dental CAD/CAM with Max Milz

My name is Max Milz, and I'm responsible for connected technology solutions at Dentsply Sirona. So basically all the equipment plus the cloud software.

Yeah, I think it's if you look at different technologies, in particular CAD/CAM, what it really did is it expanded the workflows that dentists have directly under their control in the practice, and thereby also being able to deliver better patient care, right. Because single visit dentistry wasn't possible before the invention of chairside CAD/CAM, and that's really been something that changed the way the industry works. Now, that's not just about CAD/CAM, but it's also about CBCT, right? Dentsply Sirona was the first company to introduce cone beam tomography to dental, and bringing all these different technologies together, is really where the value lies for practitioners and for the patients.

What I hear most when I talk to customers is not actually something about digital, but about the issues that they face in their practice. And typically, people face two things. They want to grow their practice, or they want to increase their efficiency, because the costs are increasing. Then when you listen to them, they don't tell you, "Give me this technology," what they're telling you, "I have issues with my staff. I don't have enough staff. This is taking too much time. I have to keep spending more money on it. My PCs get outdated. My patients don't go for the treatment plans that I propose."

So it's really all about issues that happen in the everyday dental practice. And what digital technology should do is simplify the life of a dental practitioner, in cooperation with their partners, whether they're specialists or labs. And if we look at digital technology, we're really on the cusp of making it all simpler, right? I mean, typically, when people think about digital stuff, they look at something like this, like an iPhone, right. And everybody's like happy to use it. You know intuitively how it works. That's what digital dentures will be like. It's really about simplifying, bringing things together, and making sure that you don't have to be an expert. Because people don't go into dentistry because they want to play around with technology. They go into the industry, because they want to take care of oral health problems. So technology needs to move to the back. And that's our focus, simplifying it, expanding access, and making it easier to integrate all the different pieces that have to play together.

I think digital is fundamentally about achieving more with less. So that can be on the one side, integrating additional dental procedures in your practice that allow you to make more revenue, or increasing the conversion that you have on patient cases, thereby also increasing revenue. On the other hand, helping you save costs. And the most expensive thing that you have in dental practice is the time of the doctors and of their staff. So anything that helps you save time is a real moneymaker for a dental practice. And I think that's the way we encourage just to look at their practice, right? What are the costs? What are the benefits they are getting out of it? And how can they increase that efficiency for them. And there's never a wrong time to get into digital dentistry or to expand the amount of digital dentistry, because everything that we see is a relatively fast payback. And after you have invested in and you've changed your workflow, you're not only more profitable, but you typically also achieve better outcomes for your patients.

First of all, cloud technology is not new, right? We all use it every day. If you save images on your phone, that goes into the cloud, if you listen to your Spotify, that comes out of the cloud, if you're sending an email that goes through the cloud, so cloud technology is already there. Now what's new, is that more and more, you can make procedures and software and in the future eventually also hardware more accessible from anywhere, right. Traditionally, in dentistry, you would have a machine attached to a computer and a software on that computer. And at some point, the PC ages or the software needs upgrades. And you can only use it in that spot in that practice. Now what cloud computing allows is to basically decouple the machine, the computing and the procedure. So that means nowadays, you can scan in one room, the image goes into the cloud, you can trigger the opening off your design software from any of the screens as long as it has a web browser wherever you're at home, or wherever you're in the practice. You can view it on any device, whether it's an iPad, or whether it's a PC or if it's a big TV screen. And then you can trigger the manufacturing of that, whether you do it in your practice or whether your lab does it for you. So it's really about giving you more flexibility of how you work and giving you more options of how you use different workflows in your practice.

The first piece that I would always start with is actually lean in, right. Be curious about it, and also take courses, try things out. Because digital sounds very scary if you don't feel like you're a very digital person. But a lot of it is actually fairly easy. But it's really about getting your hands dirty and trying it out. The second thing is I would always start with, what's the focus of my practice today? What am I really doing? What's the biggest procedure or the focus that I'm working on? Am I restorative doctor? Do I focus on prevention, and so forth? And then figure out how can digital technology help me in what I'm already good at, because then you don't have the dual learning curve of learning a new procedure that you might not be confident in, and bringing in new technology that you're not gonna be confident in. Start with what you're comfortable with and figure out how you can use more digital technology to do that better, faster, more efficiently, and increasingly, also involve your entire practice. What we see is that if you want to have a digital practice, that means not only yourself, needs to be able to use it but also your hygienist, your assistants. It's a transformation, right. And that's not just true for dental practices. That's also true for large companies like Dentsply Sirona. It's a journey where everybody needs to get involved and go stepwise. Start with the processes that you're really good at, make those better, and then branch out as you get more and more confident.

Thank you. I think the main wish for me is it's really about leaning in, and ensuring interoperability because wherever the industry likes it or not, dentists like to combine things from different OEMs. And it should be our job to make sure that workflows are interoperable, because only through that, can we empower our customers together.

Videos

Max Milz, Dentsply Sirona Group VP, Connected Technology Solutions talks about how digital dentistry and connected technologies benefit dental practices and dental patients. [7 Minutes]

AAO Offering Guidance to SmileDirectClub Patients After the Company’s Abrupt Closure | Image Credit: © American Association of Orthodontists

Last week SmileDirectClub (SDC) announced its abrupt shut down, which left many patients with questions and concerns about their ongoing orthodontic treatment. Today, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is offering guidance to those patients impacted by the recent closure of SDC, and patients being approached by other "mail-order" teeth straightening companies.

"The best thing SmileDirectClub patients can do at this point is to book an in-person exam with a licensed orthodontist in their area," Myron Guymon, DDS, MS, President of the AAO, says in today’s press release. "Most SmileDirectClub patients have not had an x-ray or in-person exam, which are critical to ensuring an accurate diagnosis and safe and effective treatment plan."

The AAO suggests patients of SDC and others concerned about mail-order orthodontics take the following steps:

Make an appointment with a local licensed orthodontist. For a searchable list of experienced orthodontists in every state, US territory and Canadian province visit

At the appointment, share all concerns and past treatments. Feel confident knowing that an orthodontist has specialized education and experience and has helped patients in similar situations.

If finances are a concern, when booking the appointment, ask about complimentary consultations offered by many AAO orthodontists.

Beware of other mail-order orthodontic companies feeding on SDC's failure. AAO emphasizes the importance of an in-person examination and x-rays before starting any orthodontics with a provider to avoid irreparable harm.

For patients with complaints, including those who may be unable to contact the dentist that was supervising their SDC treatment, AAO recommends reaching out to state dental boards that have individual complaint processes for dental treatments. For a list of state dental boards, visit: 

https://www2.aaoinfo.org/advocacy/laws-regulations/info-for-dental-boards/

Earlier this week, Dental Products Report reported that SDC had 

last Friday reading: SmileDirectClub has made the incredibly difficult decision to wind down its global operations, effective immediately.

The statement added that new customers interested in aligner treatment through the company were out of luck as “aligner treatment is no longer available through our telehealth platform.”

SmileDirectClub Closes Operations and Some Customers May Be Stuck in the Middle of Their Treatments [Update] 

AAO members are all highly trained orthodontic specialists dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care to protect a patient's health and safety throughout their orthodontic treatment.

"We are committed to helping SmileDirectClub patients navigate through this challenging situation," adds Dr Guymon in the press release. "Our members are available to provide the care and support patients need to achieve a healthy and confident smile."

In its statement last week, SDC says it plans to provide additional information “once the bankruptcy process determines next steps and additional measures customers can take.”

The AAO represents 19,000 orthodontist members throughout the US, Canada, and abroad. Founded in 1900, it is the world's oldest and largest dental specialty organization. AAO is dedicated to ethically advancing the art and science of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics worldwide; improving the overall oral healthcare of the public; advocating for the health and safety of the public; educating the public about the benefits of orthodontic treatment provided by an orthodontic specialist.

Organization offers warning about mail-order orthodontics and suggests patients make an appointment with a local licensed orthodontist.

AAO Offering Guidance to SmileDirectClub Patients After the Company’s Abrupt Closure 

Chairside or anywhere in the office financial arrangements will be discussed.

Immediately after diagnosing treatment and reviewing financial arrangements.

Patients are more likely to say yes to treatment and financing when they can clearly review and select from multiple options. AcceptCare provides patients with custom financing offers that can make treatment attainable for any patient.

AcceptCare allows patients to review different payment and financing plans for the proposed treatment, with a multi-lender network that can find financing options at different monthly price points. The platform integrates with leading practice management software applications and can send patients reminders about care offerings, allowing them to accept proposed treatment after leaving the office.

The AcceptCare platform is designed to drive treatment acceptance via a multi-level approach that helps patients find options to make care affordable.

5Ws* AcceptCare

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

Know the Benefits of DSOs If You’re Looking to Sell Your Practice | Image Credit: © Andrey Popov - stock.adobe.com

The Dental Service Organization (DSO) offers many attributes to the dental practice owner as a going concern because of its lower costs to operate.

Examples include the purchase of dental supplies, equipment and marketing costs among other items. This is mostly because of the large volume of purchases made by the DSO. Their purchase volume is large because they are buying for many dental practices that they own now or will own shortly in the future.

The question would be that if the dental practitioner wants to be part of a going concern where he or she is a profit center and a payout is based on future earnings, this may be the best place to be.

In the event that the dental practice owner wants a payment that is not based on the future, a solo or multi-partner ownership who offers to buy the practice may be the best for the dentist. In either case, the dental practitioner who is looking to sell his or her practice will want to know how much he or she is receiving now or now plus in the future.

There may be many reasons that the dental practice owner wants to sell his or her practice. Some examples are the dentist’s own health, the stress of working and trying to maintain a strong cash position to meet payroll requirements, and other items too numerous to mention here. Sometimes it is difficult for the dentist and his or her advisor to understand exactly what the DSO is offering because so much of the bid for the practice is based on what will happen in the future.

What does it mean when the DSO offers cash, a note payable to the seller, and a stock ownership in the DSO to the dental practitioner?

When a private offer is on the table for the dentist who is selling, the typical sale includes a closing that is scheduled to take place quickly. The amount of the purchase includes a lump sum payment at the closing with the potential for an earn out to give the seller more if certain conditions have been met. This is somewhat like the offer from the DSO except that the private purchase will be much lower than the DSO will offer to the seller. The reason for this is at the closing, the DSO will pay some cash as a down payment and then based on some agreed upon conditions that the seller and the DSO hope will occur in the future, more cash and the potential for a note payable to the owner who just sold his or her practice to the DSO. 

As the years go by and additional goals are achieved by the DSO, the stock of the DSO may be offered to induce the seller to work harder, if employed by the DSO, to obtain an ownership position. It is common for the DSO to employ the seller for a period of time after the closing occurs to keep the owner’s “skin in the game.” If the owner wants to be paid and to be retired, the sale price would probably be lower since there would be no incentive available to the seller. He or she would not be around to work and to offer advice to those who are in the employ of the DSO. One of the attributes of the DSO is that there is no or little administrative work to do and the dentist would have to use his or her clinical skills only at the chair.

When do the advisors to the dentist and the dentist understand what he or she would be receiving from the DSO?

The dental practice has a dental CPA, an attorney with experience in working with clients who are dentists and a hedge fund or venture capital group who are the money people to the DSO. They also may have settled quite a few of these transactions with dental practices so they have experience with what it takes to close a transaction. If each side to the transition really want the transaction to occur, it will and it will be sooner rather than later. The understanding does not guarantee that the goals will be met since that is based on the future. The DSO knows that it must offer quite a bit more than the private practice that may be bidding on the dental practice acquisition as well.

Since the big upside for the dentist is based on reaching certain goals, the DSO knows that it must set these goals realistically or they will get a reputation as not being able to perform. The goals will be set so that the acquisition will have to work hard to reach them, but they will have the opportunity to do so. The DSO profits as well if the new dental practice just acquired can reach its goals. If they do, it will make the DSO more attractive to a third-party buyer that may be a larger DSO or a venture capital firm or hedge fund. Everyone benefits if that occurs.

After the dental CPA, attorneys for both parties to the transaction and the principals are satisfied with the terms and conditions of the transaction, the transition will probably close. Everyone must compromise a little bit but if the goals are met there will be a pot of gold for the dentist and the DSO at the end of the transaction. Depending on the wishes of the dentist and whether there is a realistic opportunity to reach those goals, a second and maybe a third settlement will take place as the upside of the transition will occur. The dentist should know that the first offer from the DSO will not be the last offer. The DSO has the capital and lines of credit to continue the negotiating while the private buyer has a limit.

Dentists who are well informed can negotiate the best terms and conditions when dealing with the acquisition of a dental practice.

Know the Benefits of DSOs If You’re Looking to Sell Your Practice

 Study Reveals Link Between Autoimmune Disorders and Tooth Enamel Formation Defects. Image credit: © Elena - stock.adobe.com

, researchers have uncovered a novel link between autoimmune disorders and defects in tooth enamel formation. The study, titled "Autoimmune amelogenesis imperfecta in patients with APS-1 and coeliac disease," sheds light on the role of autoantibodies in disrupting the crucial process of enamel formation.

Ameloblasts, specialized epithelial cells in the jaw, play a vital role in the formation of tooth enamel. Enamel defects, known as amelogenesis imperfecta, result from the loss of function of ameloblast-derived proteins that serve as scaffolds for hydroxyapatite crystals. This rare congenital disorder has long puzzled scientists due to its varied manifestations and unclear underlying mechanisms.

The research team focused on 2 seemingly unrelated conditions: autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type-1 (APS-1) and coeliac disease. Both patient groups exhibited defects in enamel formation, and the scientists aimed to uncover the common thread.

The study found that the majority of patients with APS-1 and coeliac disease developed autoantibodies, primarily of the IgA isotype, against ameloblast-specific proteins. These proteins are expressed in the thymus under the regulation of AIRE (Autoimmune Regulator). AIRE deficiency in APS-1 patients leads to a breakdown of central tolerance, allowing the generation of autoantibodies that interfere with enamel formation.

However, in coeliac disease, the mechanism is distinct. Autoantibodies targeting ameloblast-specific proteins are generated due to a breakdown of peripheral tolerance to intestinal antigens. These antigens, expressed in both the intestines and enamel tissue, trigger the production of autoantibodies that interfere with enamel formation.

The researchers coined the term "autoimmune amelogenesis imperfecta" to collectively describe this novel type of IgA-dependent autoimmune disorder. The study marks a significant leap forward in dental and autoimmune research, offering hope for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for individuals affected by autoimmune amelogenesis imperfecta. To learn more or read the study, visit 

A new study has shown that there may be a link between certain autoimmune disorders and tooth enamel defects, further strengthening the oral-systemic connection. 

Study Reveals Link Between Autoimmune Disorders and Tooth Enamel Formation Defects

Dentsply Sirona’s Next Implant Solutions World Summit 2024 Set for June | Image Credit: © Dentsply Sirona

Enrollment is currently open for Dentsply Sirona's eagerly anticipated dental implant gathering scheduled for June 13-5, 2024, in Miami, Florida. Following the impressive success of this year's conference in Athens, Greece, The Implant Solutions World Summit 2024 pledges to be an extraordinary opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange, and cultivating collaborations among implant dentistry professionals.

Demonstrating its dedication to advancing oral health and delivering innovative solutions, Dentsply Sirona is crafting an exceptional program showcasing a variety of keynote presentations, engaging panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Participants can anticipate delving into the latest trends, research, and breakthroughs in the realm of implant dentistry, gaining valuable insights to enhance their practices while networking with industry peers.

"It is an honor to host the Implant Solutions World Summit again in 2024," Tony Susino, group vice president of implant and prosthetic solutions at Dentsply Sirona says in a press release. “This event reflects our commitment to advancing implant dentistry through education, innovation, and collaboration. We are excited to bring together experts from around the world to share their expertise and inspire the future of implant and prosthetic innovations."

The Ever-evolving World of Dental Implant Solutions


The Implant Solutions World Summit program is being collaboratively developed with the Scientific Chairs, Dean Lyndon Cooper and Malene Hallund, DDS. Leveraging their extensive experience and exceptional contributions to the field, Cooper and Dr Hallund will contribute their expertise to ensure the scientific program delivers unparalleled educational content and an enriching experience for all attendees.

"This event serves as a platform for professionals dedicated to implant dentistry to connect, exchange ideas, and lead with innovations," states Cooper, scientific chair of the Implant Solutions World Summit, and Dean of VCU School of Dentistry, in the press release. "We are looking forward to a program that will inspire and challenge attendees, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this rapidly evolving field. I believe it will provide a transformative educational experience for all participants."

Crafted to empower dental professionals and foster collaboration, the agenda will feature a dynamic program comprising plenary sessions, master classes, and presentations by inspirational speakers from around the globe. Leading experts will share their knowledge, insights, and real-world case studies, providing attendees with valuable practical information directly applicable in their practices and encouraging innovative thinking.

In addition to the plenary sessions, the conference will offer a diverse range of parallel sessions, each delving deeper into specific areas of interest. Attendees will have the opportunity to customize their conference experience to meet their unique professional development goals.

Cutting-edge Solutions to Propel Innovation


Dentsply Sirona persistently endeavors to equip dental professionals with the most advanced and comprehensive products and solutions. The latest additions to the implant and prosthetic portfolio aim to enhance confidence in the delivery of patient care, with a focus on improving oral health outcomes and treatment effectiveness.

Participants at the Implant Solutions World Summit 2024 will also have the chance to explore an interactive exhibition, gaining insights into the company's products, solutions, and treatment workflows, including:

Whether attendees seek to refine their skills, acquire new insights, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, the conference promises a valuable and enriching experience.

Early-bird registration for the Implant Solutions World Summit is available until January 31, 2024. To learn more and register for the event, visit: 

Event to take place in Miami; the agenda features a dynamic program comprising plenary sessions, master classes, and presentations by inspirational speakers from around the globe.

Dentsply Sirona’s Next Implant Solutions World Summit 2024 Set for June

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.  

SmileDirectClub Closes Operations and Some Customers May Be Stuck in the Middle of Their Treatments | Image Credit: © SmileDirectClub

This article has been updated to add details on OrthoFx’s outreach to former SmileDirectClub customers. 

Dental customers of SmileDirectClub (SDC) may be stuck in the middle of their treatment process after the direct-to-consumer dentistry and orthodontics company shut down its operations.

 on Friday reading: SmileDirectClub has made the incredibly difficult decision to wind down its global operations, effective immediately.

Many existing customers also are out of luck as SDC no longer provides customer care support. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year.

Teeth-straightening done via clear aligners typically takes 4-6 months for significant results and patients often commit to years of retainers to maintain the results and smiles they desire. Because of this shutdown, many existing SDC customers may be caught in the middle of their treatments.

On Tuesday, OrthoFX, announced it is stepping in to offer help to the many SDC customers left seeking continued care. 
Unlike SDC, OrthoFX is an FDA-approved liner solution that works directly with dental professionals, ensuring individualized treatment plans are both crafted and supervised by licensed dentists or orthodontists.

According to the SDC statement, customers who wish to continue treatment outside of the company’s platform should consult their treating doctor or local dentist with any questions around future aligner treatment.

That’s not to say these customers are no longer expected to pay for their SDC plans, and there’s more bad news—"Effective immediately the Lifetime Smile Guarantee no longer exists,” the statement adds.

“I would say they should consider seeing a dentist or moving to a different online system. I feel that there will be some help for these patients that will arise once the smoke clears and a clearer path is evident in helping these patients still going through SDC’s platform,” suggests Trent W. Smallwood, DDS, a cosmetic dentist in Tempe, Arizona. “These patients will need help navigating through their existing treatment and if I know this industry, I know that patients are the primary focus.”

SDC's SmilePay customers are expected to continue to make all monthly payments until payment has been made in full per the terms of the SDC SmilePay program. The company’s statement suggests customers contact HFD (formerly called Healthcare Finance Direct) at 877-874-3877 or support@gohfd.com for additional questions. HFD is pay-over-time solutions platforms for elective healthcare.

The Nashville-based telehealth company was founded in 2014 and SmileDirectClub promoted itself as a more affordable and convenient option than clear aligners provided through dental practices. SDC products were available from big retailers like Walmart, but the company announced its bankruptcy filing this past fall.

“The news of Smile Direct shutting down is unfortunate for any oral healthcare company. However, generally businesses that go up quick have an excellent possibility of going down quick,” says Sam Low, DDS, MS, MEd, a dental speaker and frequent contributor to Dental Products Report. “Clear aligner orthodontics has been challenged lately by inflation that has impacted our patient’s pocketbook. The same occurred in 2008 and 2009 with any dentistry related to esthetic. When patients are trying to put food on the table, this becomes a priority over esthetic dentistry.”

Dr Low adds that healthcare companies looking to provide services directly to consumers may not always find the road easy.

“Smile Direct, I can assume, was leveraged, and whether it be marginal business practices, or the fact that services provided were being utilized less, the result becomes evident,” he says. “While several healthcare companies are attempting to go directly to patients, and to a certain degree minimize the involvement of a healthcare professional, this activity may prove to be premature. The bottom line is that managing oral healthcare requires quality data collection, diagnosis and thus quality treatment to ensure safe and effective care of our patients.”

California dentist Michael A. Miyasaki, DDS, backs up Dr Low’s thoughts on the importance of having professionals closely involved with providing dental care.

“I never had any business with SmileDirectClub, but I think this shows that, unfortunately, many patients got what they paid for,” Dr Miyasaki says. “I am all for trying to save money, and we try to do this for our patients. But when it comes to your health many times you want to have a professional to help you figure out the best treatment and guide the treatment, as everybody is different, to get the best results. That is getting true value.”

In response to the news, OrthoFX has launched a comprehensive initiative to aid patients affected by SDC’s abrupt closure. OrthoFX is looking to ensure a seamless transition by giving impacted customers in-person care through its select network of doctors to continue their treatment with confidence.

In a press release, the company states its new initiative includes the following services exclusively for SDC patients:

Free consultations and treatment assessments: 

OrthoFX will conduct complimentary consultations and treatment assessments, ensuring personalized plans for a smooth transition from SDC's ongoing treatment.

Leveraging advanced AI technology and expert teams, OrthoFX will match patients' current treatment progress, minimizing the need for additional aligner sets or extended treatment periods.

 The company is offering special financing options and flexible payment plans to assist affected patients in affording their new treatment.

OrthoFX has assembled a dedicated support team specifically trained to address the unique needs and concerns of SDC patients, ensuring a seamless transition to its system.

 The FDA-cleared and patented next-generation aligner polymers are designed to improve patient compliance and reduce refinements and treatment duration while enhancing patient comfort.

“It’s unacceptable and medically negligent that SmileDirectClub put patients in this situation,” Chicago orthodontist Neil Warshawsky says in the press release. “This situation highlights the risks associated with remote dental care, and alongside our partners at OrthoFX, we are here to support customers who’ve been left behind.”

The company is making its service available to SDC’s patients through its national network of doctors. Powered by polymer science and AI software innovations, OrthoFX uses in-person and remote care to provide patients with great treatment experiences, the company states.

“We believe that these unforeseen circumstances should not compromise access to quality and ethical, clear aligner therapy,” Ren Menon, co-founder of OrthoFX, adds in the press release. “We are committed to supporting SmileDirectClub patients during this difficult time and helping them navigate the uncertainty surrounding their treatment. If you are a SmileDirectClub patient who needs an alternate solution that is led by a doctor, we’re happy to help.”

Patients affected by SDC's closure who would like additional information on OrthoFX's initiative can visit: 

Ron Kaminer, DDS, FAGD, the founder and chief dental officer at Catapult Crown, thinks SDC's closing is further proof that clinicians need to be very involved with oral care treatments, including clear aligner therapy.

"SDC tried to commercialize a difficult yet made to look easy process of aligning teeth," Dr Kaminer says. "While it worked for simple cases it failed miserably for most of the cases. Today, with so many aligner options out there and Align not the only player anymore, dentists have been able to lower the cost on their cases and patients still have supervision. In my opinion, these 2 points specifically doomed SDC. Getting their money on payment plans already in place will be a challenge and refunds will be a challenge as well. It just reinforces that aligner therapy should be done in a dental office with supervision."

SDC plans to provide additional information “once the bankruptcy process determines next steps and additional measures customers can take,” according to the statement.

Kellie Nock contributed to this reporting.

Direct-to-consumer telehealth company will no longer provide clear aligners or customer care for existing customers.

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

Information provided by Kettenbach LP | Compiled by Kellie Nock

Light-curing, radiopaque nano-hybrid filling materials

Visalys Fill and Visalys Flow are said to demonstrate high strength as well as color stability, making them durable and esthetically desirable for patients and practitioners. The chemistry in this line of composites enables a color match to the surrounding dentition for a seamless transition in the restoration. Visalys Fill and Visalys Flow provide the flexibility that a clinician desires for their restorative treatment.

Visalys Fill is designed to be a smooth, packable material, making it easy to handle for the practitioner. Flow, which is suitable for posterior and anterior restorations, is designed with low viscosity, which is said to enable good wetting and stability. Both composites benefit from Kettenbach’s Flex Shade System, a “chameleon-like” effect that covers the VITA shade ranges as well as a Bleach shade for optimal esthetics. Fill and Flow both feature high inorganic filler content, which lends itself to high flexural strength as well as restoration shape preservation.

These filling materials from Kettenbach are said to be strong and esthetically optimal, making them suitable for a variety of restorative indications. 