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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. 

Articles

GC Initial® LiSi Block from GC America can be used to mill durable, esthetic restorations without the need for firing, harnessing the power of micronization and densely packed microcrystals.

Saving Time and Money Using Nonfiring Lithium Disilicate Materials 

A roundup of the latest dental product launches from the week of September 9 - September 13, 2024.

New Dental Products – September 9 - September 13, 2024

Videos

Jeff Rohde, DDS, shares his positive 5-year experience with the SureSmile Clear Aligner System and how it has transformed his practice's efficiency and cost-effectiveness. [5 minutes]

Video Test Drive: SureSmile Clear Aligner System from Dentsply Sirona

A bite-sized look at all the latest dental product launches. This week's episode features products from Microcopy, Dentsply Sirona, PreXion, Formlabs, and VOCO.

Product Bites – September 13, 2024

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This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from Amann Girrbach, DMG, Pac-Dent, and ASI Dental Specialties.

Product Bites – November 10, 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 new products from Amann Girrbach, DMG, Pac-Dent, and ASI. So let's jump right in and learn about these newly launched dental innovations.

First up, Amann Birrbach is set to release it Ceramill Map FX lab scanner in mid-December. This new addition to the company's CAD/CAM system is designed to provide precision and versatility to dental professionals while significantly enhancing digital workflows. The modular design of Ceramill Map FX allows users to expand and upgrade ensuring long-term usability and customizability for different dental labs. With high precision short scanning times and connectivity to all major dental CAD/CAM platforms, Ceramill Map FX has something to offer almost any digital workflow.

DMG is set to unveil its latest innovation, the Ecosite Elements nanohybrid universal composite system at the Greater New York Dental Meeting November 26 through 29th. However, the new material is already available for purchase from the company. This new material is said to offer superior esthetics for dental composite restorations. Ecocite Elements offers a concise range of shades, which helps minimize storage requirements and ensures cost savings. The material features NC1 Technology which provides a precise silanization of ultrafine filler elements which creates a homogenous distribution within the material. This allows Ecosite Elements to deliver optimal working characteristics and exceptional polishability.

Described as a next-generation zirconia-infused nanohybrid resin, Rodin Sculpture 2.0 3D printing resin from Pac-Dent features over 60% ceramic filler content and offers a biaxial flexural strength of more than 200 Megapascals, allowing the material to set new benchmarks in wear and fracture resistance. Available in 16 Vita classic shades and 2 bleach shades, the new Sculpture 2.0 material can be used for permanent restorations, and it meets the requirements to be coded as a ceramic restoration for insurance purposes. It can be paired with acrylic-based, light-curable stain and glaze systems to create highly esthetic, long-lasting 3D printed restorations.

Engineered for printing full arch restorations and provisional hybrid dentures Rodin Titan ceramic nanohybrid resin from Pac-Dent is based on the core composition of the original Rodin Sculpture, but features increased flexibility for enhanced impact strength. It is designed to facilitate a swift production process and is available in 6 Vita shades including A1, A2, and A3.

Finally, the Glider integrated dental surgical table from ASI Dental Specialties is designed to be positioned over patient chairs. It includes a floating shelf for additional instruments and can be integrated with surgical motors and other equipment. The glider aims to be a part of a seamless surgical experience, and it can eliminate the need for multiple carts and stands by ensuring quick access to the instruments needed during procedures.

That does it for this week's Product Bites from Dental Products Report. Check back next Friday for the next episode of Product Bites. And in the meantime, stay up to speed with the newest dental innovations at dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts.

I'm your host Noah Levine saying thanks for listening, and we'll see you next time on Product Bites.

The weekly new products podcast from Dental Products Report is back. With a quick look at all of the newest dental product launches, Product Bites makes sure you don't miss the next innovation for your practice.
This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from Amann Girrbach, DMG, Pac-Dent, and ASI Dental Specialties. [4 Minutes]

new launches from Kerr Dental, MGF, PreXion, ZimVie, Amann Girrbach, VOCO, ASI Dental Specialties, DMG, and NovoDynamics.

Product Bites – October 27, 2023

Welcome to Product Bites, a weekly podcast from Dental Products Report, providing you with a rundown of recently launched an 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 bevy of new products to talk about, including the latest from Kerr Dental, PreXion, DMG, ASI Dental Specialties, and more. So let's get to it and learn about this latest collection of new dental products.

Kerr Dental has introduced SimpliShade Bulk Fill and SimpliShade Bulk Fill Flow, 2 dental composites aimed at improving flexibility and simplicity in restorative procedures. These products, powered by Ternary Adaptive Response technology aim to deliver long lasting restorations with reduced shrinkage and enhanced strength. Both materials feature a one-shade system that matches all 16 VITA Classical shades. SimpliShade Bulk Fill can be placed in increments of up to 5 mm and it can be used without a capping layer. SimpliShade Bulk Fill Flow is a self-leveling composite providing comprehensive coverage. It also can be cured in 5 mm increments, and it should be placed beneath a capping layer.

Italian manufacturer MGF Compressors now offers a new line of IoT (Internet of Things) Compressors designed to enhance work efficiency in dental practices. These smart compressors use internet connectivity to monitor usage parameters, manage regular upkeep, and provide predictive maintenance. This technology shifts equipment service from a reactive intervention to a preventive and programmed approach, ensuring targeted, fast and efficient responses. It offers real-time monitoring and connectivity to service technicians through the MGF app.

The new Evolve Sensor from PreXion is a digital intraoral sensor that provides high definition images. This sensor is fully compatible with all x-ray equipment on the market and offers user-friendly software. The Evolve sensor connects to a computer via USB cable, and its advanced image processing provides sharp images for accurate diagnosis.

The 3-in-1 PreXion 3D Evolve CBCT - Panoramic and Cephalometric imaging system is designed to be a complete dental imaging solution that can grow with a practice while providing top of the line imaging capabilities in any of its 3 imaging modalities. In the panoramic mode, it offers multislice capability for precise visualization and optimal sharpness and contrast. The addition of the optional cephalometric arm enhances diagnostic potential with specialized imaging of hard and soft tissues.

ZimVie recently launched Azure Multi-Platform Product Solutions, a platform consisting of 13 dental laboratory focused prosthetic and restorative solutions. These solutions are designed for seamless integration into digital workflows, offering dental professionals a wide range of options for tooth replacement cases. Azure aims to simplify decision making for dental laboratories by providing high quality, profitable and well supported solutions for almost any implant case in a single place. The product range includes implant compatible prosthetics, bases, attachments, blanks, screws, and tools.

Amann Girrbach has enhanced its chairside CAD/CAM solution with the Ceramill DRS software upgrade 1.5. The upgrade includes features like faster scanning speeds and improved 3D scan display colors. The Ceramill Motion DRS milling machine now supports a broader range of materials and offers both validated and generic milling strategies. A new Ceramill DRS abutment workflow streamlines the design and milling of crowns and abutments for implant cases. The software update also includes additional features like the Artex CR virtual articulator, color visualization for natural restoration design, and simplified software installation and updates.

With the introduction of the new Admira Fusion BXL shade, there are now 19 available shades for VOCO's universal nanohybrid ORMOCER restorative material. This new bleach shade enhances the materials eesthetics and is available in both caps and syringes. Admira Fusion boasts low shrinkage, immediate esthetics, easy handling, and superior biocompatibility. It eliminates traditional monomers in the formulation and offers an optimal balance of translucency and opacity. Admira Fusion is compatible with conventional bonding agents and demonstrates high wear resistance.

ASI Dental Specialties recently introduced the GliderLite dental surgical table, designed to optimize essential material accessibility during procedures, even in smaller operatory spaces. The table is compatible with standard dental patient chairs and features a non-porous main worktop surface. It offers ample space for sterile instruments and accessories, including an optional floating instrument shelf, and dovetail rails for customization. With electrical height adjustment and programmable presets, clinicians can personalize their working positions. Integrated power outlets make it easy to keep equipment powered on as the table is moved.

DMG announced the DentaMile Desk MC system, an all in one solution for 3D printing in dental practices and small dental laboratories. The system combines a 3D printer, washing unit, and curing unit for nearly plug-and-play experience. It includes the compact DentaMile Desk MC-5 DLP printer, a washing unit with efficient preset programs, and a curing unit with Omni 360-degree technology. The system is compatible with DMG's LuxaPrint suite of 3D printing resins, offering a range of materials for various dental applications. The DentaMile Connect software streamlines 3D printing with automated nesting and slicing, and it can be accessed remotely.

Finally, the latest version of NovoHealth Dental from NovoDynamics uses artificial intelligence to automate the insurance claim verification process. It is designed to detect missing documentation and ensure that anatomical references are visible in the insurance claims prior to submission. The platform assists providers in correcting incomplete claims before payer review. It is capable of automatically recognizing attachment types, distinguishing individual views from full mouth series, identifying and labeling quadrants and teeth, and checking for compliance with payer-specific evidence requirements. It also performs clinical analyses to determine if the evidence meets payment criteria. The platform reportedly results in enhanced productivity, consistency, and cost savings for both payers and providers, leading to faster and more accurate claim decisions.

That wraps up this large load of new products for this week. Thanks for listening to Product Bites from Dental Products Report. For all things new dental products, you can always go to dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts. I'm Noah Levine. And we'll be back next week with more new dental products on the next edition of Product Bites.

Product Bites makes sure you don't miss the next innovation for your practice. 
This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from Kerr Dental, MGF, PreXion, ZimVie, Amann Girrbach, VOCO, ASI Dental Specialties, DMG, and NovoDynamics. [8 Minutes]

This week's podcast features TorqTech Ultra Mini from J. Morita, Ormco Digital Bonding, Presto Smile, Eaglesoft 22, and Sonendo’s CleanFlow instrument.

Product Bites— October 6, 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 the TorqTech Ultra Mini from J. Morita, Ormco Digital Bonding, Presto Smile, Patterson Dental's Eaglesoft Version 22.00, and Sonendo's second generation CleanFlow procedure instrument. So let's dive right into the weekly look at the newest products in the dental industry.

J. Morita recently introduced the TorqTech Ultra Mini, a new addition to their contra angle handpiece lineup designed to provide stability and durability in a compact form. With a short head height, the Ultra Mini ensures excellent visibility, making it perfect for patients with limited jaw mobility or children. Despite its size, this 1:5 contra angle offers exceptional cutting capacity and an extended lifespan. The Ultra Mini accommodates standard and short shank burrs up to 21 mm. Its advanced water spray provides consistent cooling, and it is compatible with both air and E-type electric motors. Additional benefits include the lightweight design, a durable chuck, and optimal illumination.

Ormco Digital Bonding is an innovative orthodontic technology designed to work in conjunction with Damon Ultima brackets and Spark Approver software. The solution aims to help clinicians achieved consistent bracket bonding and customized positioning with less effort. Digital workflows are now accessible for all patients, providing flexibility and new treatment options. Ormco Digital Bonding aims to make orthodontists' lives easier, offering more treatment options along with a streamlined workflow.

Presto Smile is a new mobile app that uses artificial intelligence to help clinicians show patients their potential post-treatment smile, enhancing chairside discussions and informed decision making. The user-friendly platform integrates seamlessly into dental practices and generates instant realistic smile mock ups through its AI algorithms. With its intuitive design, Presto Smile is easy to use. It's designed to enhance trust and increase patient acceptance of proposed treatments. This new app facilitates discussions enabling patients to actively participate in their dental care decisions.

Patterson Dental's Eaglesoft Version 22.00 practice management software offers new features to enhance performance, maintain security and ensure HIPAA compliance. New maintenance and optimization capabilities are designed to automate workflows, save staff time, and increase practice efficiency. CAESY Cloud integration aims to increase treatment acceptance while the built in PDF viewer simplifies document handling. Improved email integration with Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, and Outlook 365 enhances communication. Finally, security updates in the utilities zone ensure data protection.

Finally this week, Sonendo, the developer behind GentleWave endodontic technology, recently debuted the second generation CleanFlow procedure instrument. This upgraded release boasts a redesigned matrix system for a secure and lasting seal, streamlining the root canal treatment process. The improved design allows clinicians to use a single instrument for all teeth enhancing treatment efficiency. Approved for use on anterior teeth, this innovation simplifies use of the GentleWave System, which provides effective disinfection and cleaning inside root canals, making procedures safer and more efficient.

That does it for this week's episode of Product Bites. To stay up to date on all the latest dental products. You can go to 

dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts

, or check back next week for the next episode of Product Bites. I'm Noah Levine. Thanks so much for listening.

This week's Product Bites podcast features the TorqTech Ultra Mini from J. Morita, Ormco Digital Bonding, Presto Smile, Patterson Dental's Eaglesoft version 22.00 and Sonendo’s second generation CleanFlow procedure instrument.

This week's podcast features ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental, OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and NeoScan 2000 from Neoss Group.

Product Bites – September 29, 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 are long running your practice.

I'm your host for this week, DPR Editorial Director Noah Levine and on this week's podcast, we've got new products, including ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, the Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental Manufacturing, the ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and the NeoScan 2000 from the Neoss Group. So let's jump right into the details on these new innovations.

The ProMate EZ-Q hygiene handpiece from Pac-Dent is designed to enhance procedural efficiency and precision for dental hygienists. This advanced handpiece introduces a quick disconnect mechanism promising a seamless patient flow and simplification of sterilization procedures. Operating it up to 3000 revolutions per minute, the ProMate EZ-Q incorporates an innovative swivel head design, providing clinicians with a 360-degree range of motion for superior control. The handpiece also features a universal prophy angle connection, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of disposable prophy angle styles from a wide range of manufacturers. It's lube free motor reduces maintenance demand and contributes to the handpieces durability. It's crafted with a stainless steel exterior, so the ProMate EZ-Q is able to withstand autoclaving, which adds to its convenience and durability. c

Calling them the Dynamic Duo, Buffalo Dental Manufacturing is now bundling its V35 Electric Handpiece and the ThermoKnife to enhance dental laboratory workflows. This bundle is engineered to save time and money while optimizing bench space, particularly when detailing aligners. The handpiece offers speeds ranging from 14,000 to 35,000 rotations per minute, allowing for precise speed selection for various cutting needs. The high torque motor ensures smooth operation and robust performance reducing operator fatigue. The ThermoKnife is fast heating and the temperature control is fully adjustable for precise cutting action. A switch allows the use of two different thermal pens with ergonomic design and sharp permanent tips.

DEXIS recently introduced the ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX, it's the latest generation of its OP 3D series of cone beam imaging solutions. This advanced extraoral imaging system offers an expanded field of view of up to 15 by 20 centimeters. It seamlessly integrates with artificial intelligence-powered DTX Studio Clinic software, providing powerful tools for enhanced diagnosis and treatment planning. The improved patient positioning system and the Embedded Noise Reduction Technology ensure clean, crisp, artifact-free images. Additionally, the cloud connectivity of the OP 3D LX enables remote access, simplifying installation, maintenance and enhancing practice efficiency.

Finally, the Neoss Group recently unveiled the NeoScan 2000. Its latest version of an intraoral scanner is wireless, and it builds upon the success of its predecessor, the NeoScan 1000. The new scanner's wireless technology enhances mobility and makes it easier and more efficient to scan, even in challenging areas. The wireless connectivity works over long ranges and provides smooth data transfer. Scans can be stored in Neoss' free cloud solution for easier data management.

That's our quick look at these four new innovations for this week. As always, you can find the latest information on new dental products at 

. For Product Bites and Dental Products Report, I'm Noah Levine. Thanks for listening. We'll see you next week on the next episode of Product Bites.

This week's Product Bites podcast features the new ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental Manufacturing, ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and NeoScan 2000 from the Neoss Group. [4 Minutes]

This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from Align Technology, Neoss Group, Pac-Dent, Weave, Henry Schein One, Cocofloss, and AirPay.

Product Bites – September 22, 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 8 new products to talk about from Neoss Group, Pac-Dent, Align Technology, Weave, Cocofloss, AirPay, and Henry Schein One. So without further ado, let's learn about these 8 new innovations.

In collaboration with Osstell, Neoss Group recently introduced NeoTell, an implant stability testing device. NeoTell uses resonance frequency analysis technology to swiftly and accurately assess implant stability. This affordable solution provides an objective stability score benefiting both clinicians and patients in making informed treatment decisions. NeoTell is user friendly and eliminates the need for invasive procedures, leading to improved patient outcomes. The device is compatible with SmartPegs which offer a convenient and sterile way to do stability testing which enhances the precision of treatment planning and contributes to heightened patient satisfaction.

Pac-Dent recently introduced an expansion to its Rodin product line with Rodin Bond, a versatile, light-cured dental adhesive that features cutting edge glass filler technology that deeply permeates dentin tubules, creating strong structural bonds. It is compatible with various dental materials including dentin, enamel, composites, zirconia, and metals. When used with Rodin Sensiguard, a 2-in-1 desensitizer and primer, it further enhances bonds and reduces sensitivity. Both products are designed for efficiency with a user friendly flipped up cap for precise dispensing.

Align Technology recently introduced a range of new updates to enhance their dental treatment planning software and other product offerings. One update for their ClinCheck software is a new plan editor which gives dentists the ability to easily edit treatment plans within the software. Changes made are quickly reflected in the treatment plan, allowing for real time adjustments to ensure the best possible care for patients. The new Align Oral Health Suite is an innovative software app that empowers clinicians to create custom oral health reports using Align's iTero Element series of intraoral scanners. Patients can gain a clearer understanding of their dental and oral health conditions through these easy to visualize reports. On the Invisalign aligners front, a new feature for SmartForce attachments reduces the need for double attachments. This enhancement improves the esthetics of aligners without compromising care quality. Finally, the new Vivera retainer subscription model is available. This is for non-first time patients and allows them to conveniently order retainers directly from their doctor, which eliminates the need for office visits.

Also new from Align Technology is the Invisalign Palatal Expander. This new 3D printed solution for palatal expansion and growing patients is unlike traditional metal expanders, in that it does not need any screws to be turned. The palatal expanders are crafted using a proprietary 3D printing formula to ensure rapid and safe expansion and a more comfortable process for young patients. It addresses hygiene concerns with its removable design, and when used in conjunction with Invisalign First aligners, it provides comprehensive early orthodontic solution. The Invisalign palatal expander is expected to enter the market officially in 2024, pending regulatory approval.

Weave recently introduced Practice Analytics to aid dental practices with data driven decision making advice. Compatible with Dentrix, Open Dental, and Eaglesoft practice management software platforms, the new feature builds upon Weave's existing message analytics and phone analytics capabilities, providing dental professionals with real time performance metrics on patient retention, appointment scheduling efficiency, treatment acceptance rates, and revenue generation. Practice Analytics also unveils unscheduled restorative or hygiene treatment plans, highlights cancellations, and reveals the average time between treatments. Additionally, it facilitates seamless patient communications through its mobile application. This robust analytics tool empowers dental practices to track missed opportunities related to patient care, patient volumes, revenue and resource utilization.

Cocofloss has launched Cocoshine, on innovative toothpaste with a nano-hydroxyapatite formula designed to tackle four essential tasks simultaneously. Cocoshine whitens teeth, addresses sensitivity, balances the oral microbiome, and strengthens enamel. The nano-hydroxyapatite formulation penetrates beneath the tooth surface to remineralize and fortify, repairing microcracks and enhancing whiteness. It addresses hypersensitivity by replenishing lost minerals and filling dentinal tubules. This oral care solution also contains key ingredients like xylitol, coconut oil, and aloe vera. It's free from sulfates, parabens, propylene glycol, triclosan, artificial dyes, and sweeteners. Cocoshine is cruelty free, vegan, and available in two flavors, delicious mint or lychee breeze.

AirPay recently introduced its new solution designed to simplify and automate the pre-appointment workflows for dental front desk teams. AirPay integrates seamlessly with popular practice management systems and performs bulk insurance eligibility checks, saving staff time and reducing claim denials and missed collections AirPay provides increased transparency regarding insurance plans and treatment costs helping patients understand the costs of proposed treatment.

Finally, Henry Schein One recently launched Lighthouse360+. Designed to seamlessly integrate with any practice management system, Lighthouse360+ offers simplified online patient scheduling, customizable digital forms that automate data intake and sync seamlessly with the practice management software. This helps reduce paper usage and saves time. The integrated phone system sends missed call text notifications to help attract new patients, while payment reminders streamline workflows and ensure timely payments to the office. Lighthouse360+ also offers reputation management, prompting regular patient reviews. Its user friendly dashboard makes it simple for office managers and front office staff to take advantage of the software capabilities.

That does it for this week's Product Bites from Dental Products Report. Thanks for listening. As always, check out all the latest new dental products on dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts, and be sure to check back next week for the next episode of Product Bites.

This week's Product Bites podcast features new launches from Align Technology, Neoss Group, Pac-Dent, Weave, Henry Schein One, Cocofloss, and AirPay. [7 Min]


On this episode of the ProdPod, I’m pleased to welcome Dr. Matthew Burton, founder of Burton Dental Innovations, with a practice in the greater Chicago area. Dr. Burton and I examine the state of matrix systems early in his career, why these systems caused frustration with his Class II restorations, and how these experiences lead him to design the VursaWedge. 

Episode 29: Matrices & the VursaWedge

In this case presentation, IPS e.max and other Ivoclar products are used to remove tetracycline stains, pull back the splaying of the upper anterior teeth, and deliver a great new smile to the patient.  

Restoring Severe Tetracycline-Stained Teeth and Correcting Protruding Anterior Teeth

We explore the challenges of getting patients in the chair for necessary care and how to overcome them. We also look into how to ensure patients care more about their role in essential care for their oral health. 

Getting Patients to Care: From Booking to Follow-Up to Oral Health Engagement, Here Are Some Things That Work

What materials you use for restorative work affects your results. We explore the pros and cons of the types of materials available and the indications of today's chairside CAD/CAM materials. 


Chairside CAD/CAM Materials: What Are the Pros, Cons, and Indications 

The 6-city US tour looks to advance restorative dentistry with AI-powered digital workflow and 3D printing featuring hands-on sessions and the latest technology advances.

SprintRay, Align, and Ivoclar Collaborating on The Midas Restoration Tour

Clinician and educator Lauren Yasuda Rainey, DDS, joins editorial director Noah Levine to talk about what makes the Thera Family of materials from BISCO great.

Dental Product Insights: BISCO's Thera Family – an Interview with Lauren Yasuda Rainey, DDS

Hello, I'm Noah Levine Editorial Director with Dental Products Report. Today I'm joined by Dr Lauren Yasuda, Rainey. And she's here to talk with us a little bit about some cutting edge materials in the dental industry. Dr. Rainey, thanks so much for joining us.

Hi. Good morning. Thanks so much for having me.

Well, to get started, can you tell everyone who's watching a little bit about yourself and the type of practice you do?

Sure, I'm currently doing a bit of a split schedule. About half of my time is in clinical practice, and the other half of my time is in education. It wasn't always that way. I am a former owner. I owned and operated my own solo practice in Berkeley, California for almost 7 years, and recently relocated to the Pacific Northwest to be closer to some extended family. So currently, I'm an associate. And I think I bring a bit of a unique perspective as a former owner, and not like a soon to be retiree to the practice that I work in. A lot of people that sell tend to be sort of at the end of their sort of clinical years. And that's certainly not me. But I would say in the last decade of my career in the bay, I was treating a mostly retiree population, like 65 Plus demographic. So I saw a lot of worn teeth, broken amalgams, fractured teeth, abfractions, and a pretty heavy focus on direct restorative was my focus there. And in education, I do kind of a mixed bag of stuff. I teach direct restorative techniques, mostly using composite as an alternative for crowns, a little bit about soft tissue management and clinical dentistry, and also a little bit about how to take your practice to a fee for service model. So that is kind of the scope of what I'm working on right now.

Well, that is wonderful. And we really appreciate you taking the time to talk with us. And we did want to talk a little bit about the Thera line of products from BISCO. And I guess to start off, how long have you use these products and kind of what first attracted you to put these into your practice?

Yeah, so the Thera products in particular, I've been using those for a little over a year now. But I've been using products from BISCO since about 2016, 2017. In 2017, a fantastic 20-plus-year, veteran, prosth assistant joined my practice, and she was an absolute wealth of knowledge on materials and materials selection. Having sat chairside, with a fairly prominent prosthodontist in downtown San Francisco. So she's who first introduced me to BISCO. But mostly she had a sense of what products were really lasting for a long time. And, you know, when she started saying, "Hey, you should start using these adhesives and take a look at their product line." That's what like first introduced me to their products in particular. And the Thera line wasn't something that I really knew about, and that was on me, til a little over a year ago. And once I started to really learn more about their benefits, I was diving in headfirst. You know, I've been that solo provider out there. It's easy to get into the habit of doing what you do and using what you use. But having a vested interest now in education that really helps keep me up to date on developments in real life anecdotal evidence, both from like what I'm doing in my educational peers in dental products. So that's the long answer to how I started using their stuff.

Now, they've got a range of products in this line, but with things like TheraCal LC, and TheraBase, and mostly these are, you know, as you mentioned, cements and liners and products that are used beneath restorations. Is that your primary use, kind of what do you you know, go to and how do you decide this is a case where I want to put a Thera product in that mouth?

Yeah, for sure. So, again, my sort of clinical demographic has been a 65 plus crowd and a lot of those teeth are pretty heavily restored even before I even get in there. So I'm reaching for these things if there's deep caries and like lots of exposed dentin. You know, JADA released the recommendations for selective caries removal in July of 2023 as their sort of desired prep design, and that's something I've actually been practicing for some time, so it's nice to see it actually in the literature. You don't always need to go directly into the pulp to remove everything that you can. Leave a little bit of that orange-brown dentin in there, as long as it's, you know, not like mushy, but being able to add something from the Thera line to that affected dentin.

And, you know, obviously, there is no shortage of selection for dentists to pick from when it comes to the materials they're choosing. So why do you think people should be choosing materials that have a calcium and you know, some of these materials also, in some cases, release fluoride as well or recharged fluoride? What is the benefits that patients get? And why should these be considerations for clinicians?

Again, I'm treating a lot of dentition, that's like pretty well, seasoned, maybe we could say. When we're working with teeth that are already had an occlusal, and then they get an MOA, and they get a DO, and now we're either looking at an MOD, or full coverage, or full coverage for the second or third time, I'm gonna throw everything I've got from the science perspective. And I know and I trust that BISCO has their line of scientists, and they are looking at these materials from, you know, the chemical sort of side of things, and I'm looking at it from the clinical side. And if we can marry those two things together, then I know that these products are going to be working with the tooth, and with me, not against it.

So we've talked a little bit about the properties of these products, and the fact that they are helping the teeth restore itself a little bit at the, you know, marginal area where we have a lot of recurrent decay problems with patients, and especially older patients who often have had work done on their teeth. So you know, why are these are the types of products that dental professionals should be looking at, for those situations, and do they have a chance to help prevent further recurrent decay from the for these patients so that they won't have need another restoration, as soon as they might?

Yeah, I think you've nailed it on the head there that these are already teeth that are compromised, by the time I get in there. If we can give the tooth any further chance of inhibiting recurrent decay, and having an alkaline pH is really important for that. And these products, I know do have that alkaline pH. We know now that the bacteria that cause cavities, like a slightly acidic environment. If we can keep that environment, just you know, north of pH neutral and get everything a little bit basic, we know that those bacteria won't really have an opportunity to thrive. So from that perspective, sure, like that will decrease the risk of recurrent decay moving forward. From a clinical perspective, these products are radiopaque. So we can see them on the x-ray. They're very easy to see that there is a very clear demarcation between restoration, cement, and tooth, and we will be able to see those on recalls and be able to kind of like tackle those recurrent areas a little bit sooner, because there's not going to be that question of is that or isn't that cement? Or is that or isn't that restoration? It becomes clear from not only what I'm looking at, but also the hygiene team and the assisting team as well.

Now, two of the products in the Thera line TheraCal LC and TheraBase are both, as the name would apply base liner materials. Not every clinician uses a base or a liner in every case. How would you decide this is a case where I really want to place a base layer beneath the restoration?

That's probably not a great question for me. I don't place a lot of bases to be to be frank, and I'm really finding that the TheraCal LC kind of acts as both of those things. So I'm not reaching for TheraBase as often as I would for TheraCal. If I'm already looking at the dentin looking a little bit blushed a little bit pink, if I'm looking at the radiograph, and I'm kind of like, I know that I'm getting close, that's when I'm saying, "You know what, let's give this tooth every opportunity to heal itself with the materials that we're working with." So I think that's a person to person, clinician to clinician question. I know there's a lot of people out there that just say, "Hey, let's go straight to Endo." I love endodontists. I've worked with a great endodontist before, but I'm not rushing to get in there any sooner than I need to. So for me, it just gives me a little bit of peace of mind. And I can share with our patients that, "Hey, I put a little bit of medicament next to your nerve, it seemed like we might be getting a little close. Call me if you're having some sensitivity, but I I did everything I could today to make sure that you're comfortable." And so a little bit of reassurance for my own heart, but also for our patient's minds goes a long way.

Now, the cement in this product line TheraCem is dual-cure cement. What are some of the advantages you find in working with that type of cement product?

So, a lot of providers are using it. There's more zirconia now than, you know, 10,15 years ago. And one of the benefits of the TheraCem is that it's self adhesive. Also calcium releasing, and a cement that contains MDP. That means that it allows material to bond to zirconia without the need for extra primers. The cementation protocol can be very efficient and streamlined, you don't utilize other things going on. The MDP makes it a great option for adhering to dentin, enamel, and restorative materials. Altogether, it has a pretty low film thickness, which means it's not going to be like goopy and thick. So when you go to seat your restoration, that's not going to end up you know, high on the occlusion. And again, the radiopacity makes it very easy to visualize in the moment and postop. And this can be reviewed pretty clearly with patients on a postop radiograph if they're interested, and looking at that, it acts as a great patient informational and educational tool.

Now, you mentioned kind of the simplicity of application, that's something BISCO likes to you know, design for. How does that play out clinically for you, and is that something that you really are looking for, when you're evaluating if the material is going to fit into your practice?

it's not the first thing I look at, but if there's a product that needs to have an extra dry, you know, 4 bottles, 18 steps, that becomes really challenging for not only me to know, but for an assisting team to also know. And I know right now there's a lot of flux in the dental industry, especially in teams. So if we can make this simple, where I can remember the steps, and I can communicate that very quickly, and the assisting team, depending on you know which one of the assistants is working with you, if they can communicate that to each other, we don't need this to be a game of telephone with 18 steps because something's gonna get lost along the way. And then what's gonna end up happening is the patient suffers from that. That's not something that's going to bother me, that will clinically affect the patient's outcome. So, you know, I'm a big fan of, you know, less is more. And if we can make sure that we've got a product that's going to be effective every single time. That works for me.

Now, you we've talked a little bit about the fact that these are materials that provide benefits to the patient after they leave practice, is this something that you talk with the patients about, during the treatment or after the treatment? And, you know, what do you like to share about the materials you choose?

Yeah, absolutely. I would say I absolutely am an oversharer with patients about what we're doing and why. Okay, so I'll say we talked to it just a hair about fluoride, but I'll say, you know, I do see a handful of patients that are not open to fluoride, they're not open to BPAs, or whatever it is. And that's important for me to be knowledgeable on ,which of the products contain things like that. Those patients tend to feel heard when we make a point to discuss, like, we're going to use this product and why and then that way, I can also respect their preferences. They're the one that's wearing the restoration home, not me. But I would say for the vast majority of patients that I treat, I ask if they're if they're open to, you know, we're going to rely on a little bit of science, is that okay with you. And here's why. And I think that worked for me, especially in Berkeley, I was about a mile from UC Berkeley, so lots of engineers, lots of highly cerebral individuals, many people that are used to sort of evidence and going back to the evidence. So when I go to the evidence, and I can feel confident about what that says, I'm happy to share that with our patient. And I think that should be part of the informed consent. Informed consent is a conversation about what we're going to do, why we're going to do it, here are the risks, the benefits, the alternatives to treatment. And I'm happy to take 18 pictures during the process and share those with the patient at the end of the appointment. So I think that for the patients that want to hear it, I'm happy to have that conversation. I think it gives our practice a lot of credibility, if myself and the team are knowledgeable on what we're doing and why. And if we can answer any questions a patient has, it puts their mind at ease. They can't see what we're doing, like poking around in their, you know, in increments of millimeters, but if we can communicate to them that we have used materials today that are going to allow your body to heal. We're going to use materials today that have stood the test of time. We're going to use materials today that I know work well with the materials that were like that they are compatible with each other. Again, I think that being able to rely on the science and communicate that to our patients leads to a lot of patient raport. And if there's something that goes you know, haywire if the nerve starts to act up, I know that I've done everything that I could. And more often than not, the patients are not upset because they have been informed that, hey, we try and X, Y and Z things. Now we've got a pivot to Plan B.

When you talk to patients about, you know, the properties of these Thera products, and the fact that they are going to produce calcium that's going to help your tooth heal and are going to be alkaline and help prevent bacteria from you know, living right there. What's the response you get? Are they even aware that, you know, these types of things are possible, let alone normal in the dental industry?

I would say they are a little bit surprised. Unless they've known me for some time, in which case we have a conversation about acid/base chemistry almost from the very first appointment. That's part of our like clinical intake is doing a caries risk assessment and caries risk assessment includes how often are you snacking? What kind of toothpaste you're using, what are you drinking at home? Is it water? Is it sparkling water? And can we bring sort out those acid/base balance challenges, sort of back to neutral. So that conversation is not usually new. But if we can take that conversation from like a global oral health perspective, and then target that down to the individual tooth, I think people are surprised. And a lot of times kind of go, "Ooh, I don't want bacteria living in my crown. That sounds you know, that doesn't sound very nice. So yeah, please, like whatever you're gonna do to prevent that bacterial overgrowth, like by all means, you know, I trust you to use your judgment. And thank you for cleaning out whatever mess is in there."

Clinician and educator Lauren Yasuda Rainey, DDS, joins editorial director Noah Levine to talk about what makes the Thera Family of materials from BISCO great material options for many of her patients. [18 Minutes]

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