the DPR Editorial Team

	There are a few things that seem to be constant in life, among them death, taxes, and 3M winning yet another honor for its hard work and creativity.

	3M was recently named as the industry’s most innovative company, according to The Anaheim Group’s “Innovation Index.” It was the 11

 straight year the company has earned the achievement. This year’s honor was earned with 95 innovations launched, once again placing the company in the top spot of the Index with 25 percent more innovations than any other dental company.

Read about 3M's launch of its Sof-Lex Diamond Polishing System

	The Anaheim Group’s index combines the number of EC/WIPO patents, U.S. patents and U.S. 510(k) clearances, and has been said to be the dental industry’s best measure of overall technical strength and capability. 

	With 3M’s stated commitment to improving lives through science, their goal is to improve upon their own innovations. The maker of award-winning products under such brands as 

, 3M’s solutions reportedly are often sourced from within its own walls. Interdisciplinary collaborations have inspired many of 3M’s most well-known innovations in the dental industry, including the use of zirconia restorative materials and introducing nanotechnology for enhanced esthetics and strength in universal restorative material.

	“Receiving the Most Innovative honor for more than a decade is a testament to what 3M excels at – applying science to help keep people healthy,” said James D. Ingebrand, vice president & general manager, Oral Care Solutions Division of 3M. “Every day, we explore new ways to impact lives, as we consistently pursue new product and process innovations with a focus on promoting lifelong oral health for all.” 

Articles

3M earned the Most Innovative Company honor this year with 95 innovations launched, once again placing the company in the top spot of the Index with 25 percent more innovations than any other dental company.

3M once again named as Most Innovative Company

Like all lecturers, Dr. Louis Kaufman gets dozens of questions from other dentists who attend his lectures. Dental Products Report decided to explore some of the most common questions he gets about CBCT.

The 5 most commonly asked questions about CBCT

	Dr. Louis Kaufman is a Chicago dentist and lectures nationally on CBCT and implantology for imaging equipment for Planmeca USA, Inc.

Like all lecturers, he gets dozens of questions from other dentists who attend his lecture. Dental Products Report decided to explore some of the most common questions he recieves about CBCT.

	Continue to the next page to see the top CBCT questions.

	What is the return on investment or how do I justify this amount of capital?

	When you purchase a cone beam, I suggest that you look at the ability of machine to generate images in different formats. You need to ask yourself, besides taking a three-dimensional image, can this machine create panoramic images? If it can take panoramic images, ask yourself, “How many panoramic images do I take in a year?” Then ask yourself, “What do I charge for those images?” For example, if I charge $100 and I take 400 panoramic images a year, then I just billed out $40,000. If this machine cost you $120,000, dollar for dollar, you recoup the expenditure in three years. Realistically, you pay for it over four years.

	Remember, it’s just not about the X-rays. It’s about the amount of undiagnosed dentistry and implant planning we can do with this technology. It generates better comprehensive treatment planning and ultimately better dentistry for the patient.

	How has communication improved with your patients using CBCT?

	Patients are blown away when they see a three-dimensional image of their jaw. When I can show patients where I can place an implant in their jaw using their own anatomy and a chairside model, patients can visualize and comprehend the procedure more clearly. I would encourage the use of videos that all the major dental implant companies produce. Check with their marketing department and incorporate a video into your website. While the patient is in the chair, you or your team can pull it up on your website for the patient to view. This serves two purposes. First, patients can visualize it more clearly. Second, when they go home to their significant other, they can pull up your website and explain the procedure to them.

	Do you need a dental radiologist to review all your scans?

	It's extremely important to have a working relationship with a dental radiologist. Of course, then the question becomes, “Do I need to send every scan to the radiologist?” In my opinion, when a large field of view is taken, I recommend sending the scan to the radiologist.

	The beauty of this technology is that it allows us to take small fields of view or limited fields view. Therefore, it is not necessary to send every scan to a dental radiologist. I can't stress enough the importance of reviewing all your scans even after the patient has left the office. The more we review and educate ourselves on the normal anatomy, the better we become at identifying the obscure. I also encourage taking classes that are continually being offered throughout the country on how to review a cone beam.

	Do I need an intraoral scanner and CBCT?

	Having an intraoral scanner and a cone beam is the perfect marriage. Both are completely independent of each other. The scanner focuses on teeth and tissue and the cone beam addresses the bony architecture. When the STL files are joined in the lab, there is complete harmony. Like a great marriage, they make each other better. From my understanding and speaking with different vendors, one can take a DICOM file obtained from the CBCT, convert it, make a virtual model, 3D printed model and fabricate a crown. So, in theory, you could prep a tooth and have an edentulous area. Plan the implant and make the crown or partial all at the same time. And then there are times we just need to take an intraoral scan and make a crown inlay or onlay.

	What's your opinion on the obsolescence of a machine you purchase today?

	The most important question to ask the equipment sale rep is, “Is the hardware upgradeable?” Also, is there a fee for upgrading to a newer version of the software? Many companies have software updates version updates so you should ask what is included with your purchase. Like any other technology, there are advances in how it's delivered. Going with a company that's one and done is not the way to go. I want to do business with a company (and there are many out there) that want a long-term relationship with the buyer.

	When it comes to dental hygienists dealing with burnout, Rachel Wall, RDH, BS, knows exactly what they are going through ... because she's been there herself.

	In a very frank and candid video interview below, Wall, the founder of 

 who talked about battling open scheduled 

, talks to viewers about when she battled against burnout and gives her advice for how hygienists can avoid the trap.

	Click below to watch our exclusive video chat...

In a very frank and candid video interview below, Rachel Wall, the founder of Inspired Hygiene, talks to viewers about when she battled against burnout and gives her advice for how hygienists can avoid the trap.

Tips for dental hygienists to avoid burnout

	Dentrix Enterprise has some big news, and product manager Nate Nelson took a few moments recently to chat with group editorial director Kevin Henry about it and how it impacts dental practices.

 has launched Version 8.0.7 and you can learn more about that 

. Also, the company has a Webinar about what the new version means for practices that you can view 

	Click below to watch our exclusive interview with Nelson...

Dentrix Enterprise has some big news, and product manager Nate Nelson took a few moments recently to chat about it and how it impacts dental practices.

VIDEO: Learning more about Dentrix Enterprise

	It’s no secret that many people struggle with access to dental care. Some stakeholders have suggested major new workforce models to combat this threat to public health. Your opinion as a dental professional is valuable. 

	UCSF researchers need you to take a brief survey to identify specific services, work settings and levels of supervision for dental hygienists and how these may affect access to oral health care. Your help is crucial.

 to make your voice heard. You will be given the opportunity to enter a drawing to win a $50 Visa gift card or Sonicare toothbrush after you complete the survey.

UCSF researchers need you to take a brief survey to identify specific services, work settings and levels of supervision for dental hygienists and how these may affect access to oral health care.

You can help shape the future of dental care delivery

	Midmark Dental announces the launch of its first iBook

 The Midmark Experience - Everything You Unexpected.

 executives believe this iBook takes its audience on a journey through the unique facets of Midmark using interactive text, pictures and videos. It will be used as a resource to invite guests to Versailles, Ohio, to participate in a company visit, which the organization refers to as 

. This new tool will also help share a consistent Midmark brand story throughout the industry.

RELATED: Midmark announces leadership changes

	The iBook opens by setting the stage of scenic rural Ohio, where guests may not expect to find a leading provider of healthcare solutions. The iBook then goes on to offer readers a glimpse of the Midmark Dental product portfolio, a chance to meet some of the people behind the products, information about the Midmark Education Center product showrooms, as well as the personalized benefits provided by the Midmark Design Center. Dentists find this experience beneficial as they evaluate equipment purchases that best fit their work style and the patient experience they want to deliver.

	To further endorse a visit to Midmark, the iBook helps the audience visualize its many corporate accommodations and amenities that are in a class all their own. Some of these accommodations include the Midmark Riverwatch conference center and lodge as well as The Inn at Versailles and its award-winning restaurant, Michael Anthony’s at the Inn that serves old-world style European cuisine.

	“Time and again, I hear feedback that our visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover all that we have to offer in the small village of Versailles,” said Eric Shirley, vice president and general manager, dental division. “The unique experience we provide our guests is unlike any of our competitors. I am so pleased to now have an exciting and engaging resource worthy of supporting 

This new tool will also help share a consistent Midmark brand story throughout the dental industry.

Midmark Dental launches interactive iBook

	Ultradent Products Inc. has introduced the Jiffy Universal Ceramic Finishing System, a product the company says is the only universal finishing system for high-strength ceramics.

	According to the manufacturer, Ultradent’s new Jiffy Universal Ceramic Finishing System is a finishing solution in which all adjustors and polishers work interchangeably on porcelain, lithium disilicate, and zirconia. Ultradent believes each kit (extraoral or intraoral) includes everything the dentist needs, eliminating the need to purchase unnecessary or multiple components and allowing the clinician to create a truly smooth, beautiful, high-gloss finish of the highest quality on all ceramic restorations. Jiffy Universal allows for universal application, eliminating the need for multiple grinders and polishers, saving the clinician time and money.

More from Ultradent: MTA Flow repair cement

	Because of the extreme hardness of newer ceramic materials, effectively adjusting and polishing ceramic restorations can be a major challenge. If a restoration is not adjusted and polished correctly, it can result in microfractures and abrasion of the softer natural dentition of adjacent teeth.

Learn more about Ultradent's Gemini soft-tissue laser

	The Jiffy Universal system features Ultradent’s specially formulated diamond grit, providing optimal smoothness and outstanding polishing results. The multi-grit diamond particles also allow for effective adjustment of ceramics for a truly high-gloss finish, and the system’s maximum diamond retention ensures a long service life. Additionally, the system’s autoclavable aluminum block further extends the life of the system.

	Jiffy Universal Kits offer a universal solution with an optimal number of components so clinicians can efficiently adjust and polish any ceramic material to achieve a truly smooth surface with the highest quality, most natural-looking finish possible.

	To learn more about the Jiffy Universal Ceramic Finishing System, visit 

Jiffy Universal Kits offer a universal solution with an optimal number of components so clinicians can efficiently adjust and polish any ceramic material to achieve a truly smooth surface with the highest quality, most natural-looking finish possible.

Ultradent unveils Jiffy Universal Ceramic Finishing System

	Alan S. Pollack, DDS, a practicing periodontist in New York City, was appointed president of the Academy of Osseointegration (AO) at the organization’s Annual Business Meeting held recently in San Diego. He succeeds former Academy President Russell D. Nishimura, DDS.

	Dr. Pollack received his B.A. in Biology from Queens College, City University of New York, and his D.D.S. degree from Columbia University School of Dental Medicine. He completed post-graduate programs in General Practice at Long Island Jewish Medical Center and in Periodontics at Columbia University. He served as a clinical assistant in the Department of Surgery at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center from 1984 to 2003, and as an attending dentist at Beth Israel Medical Center from 1992 to 1998. 

	“With the increasing use of implant dentistry, it has become evermore important for practitioners to obtain the best possible information, independent of corporate influence and open to critique and challenge from a variety of dentists and scientists across the spectrum of dental disciplines and scientific background,” said Dr. Pollack. “This is what 

 has always been about and what guides our path. We will continue to pursue the best science available, and the best and most efficient and ethical ways of translating that for our members, to provide the best possible clinical care for our patients.”

More from the AO: Guided surgery ... turning hellish disadvantages into a heavenly process

	This year, the AO Board will implement a new strategic plan to guide the organization in the coming years. It includes supporting research, promoting education, and fostering interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary care.

	The 2016-2017 Board of Directors serving with Dr. Pollack are:

	President-Elect Michael R. Norton, BDS, FDS, RCS (Ed), an oral surgeon from London, England

	Vice President Jay P. Malmquist, DMD, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Portland, Ore.

	Secretary James C. Taylor, DMD, a prosthodontist from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

	Treasurer Clark M. Stanford, DDS, PhD, a prosthodontist from Chicago  

, a prosthodontist from Westlake Village, Calif.

	Tara L. Aghaloo, DDS, MD, PhD, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Los Angeles

	Amerian D. Sones, DMD, MS, a prosthodontist from Dallas, Texas

	Steven J. Rosenstein, DMD, a general practitioner from Aventura, Fla.

	Jeffrey D. Lloyd, DDS, a general practitioner from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

	Joerg Neugebauer, DDS, PhD, an oral surgeon from Landsberg am Lech, Germany

	Hom-Lay Wang, DDS, MSD, PhD, a periodontist from Ann Arbor, Mich.

More from the AO: Dr. Dale Miles on how to avoid lawsuits

Dr. Alan Pollack was named president of Academy of Osseointegration at the group's recent meeting in San Diego.

Dr. Alan S. Pollack named president of Academy of Osseointegration

	Ultradent Products Inc. has unviled MTA Flow (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate), a repair cement made especially for pulpotomies, pulp capping, root-end filling, apexification, perforation repair, and root resorption.

	According to the manufacturer, MTA Flow is a bioactive powder and liquid/gel system consisting of an extremely fine, radiopaque, inorganic powder of tricalcium and dicalcium silicate which sets with a water-based gel. When set, the repair cement forms a layer of hydroxyapatite, which induces a healing reaction. The powder/gel combination also gives the clinician a variety of mixing options needed for an effective, non-gritty, easy-to-deliver MTA.

RELATED: Ultradent unveils new soft-tissue laser

	Four things to know about this new product

	MTA Flow’s small particle size (less than 10 microns) allows for smooth and easy dispensation, and its proprietary gel formulation makes the product more washout-resistant than other MTAs mixed with water.

	MTA Flow’s mixing ratio is adaptable to every procedure, allowing the clinician the ability to achieve any desired consistency, from thin, to thick, to putty.

	Its quick setting time also makes it possible to rinse or air-dry without washing away the MTA within five minutes of application.

	MTA Flow is the only MTA that can be delivered in thin consistency through a 29 ga Navitip

tip for apexification and apical plug applications.

HOT READ: How to design a custom security system for your practice

	To learn more about MTA Flow, call (800) 552-5512 or visit 

MTA Flow is a bioactive powder and liquid/gel system consisting of an extremely fine, radiopaque, inorganic powder of tricalcium and dicalcium silicate which sets with a water-based gel.