CHICAGO – Thousands of endodontists and other dental professionals explored the future of endodontics at AAE15, the annual meeting of the American Association of Endodontists, in Seattle, Wash., in early May. The meeting included the installation of new leadership for the Boards of the AAE, AAE Foundation and American Board of Endodontics, more than 100 education sessions, the nation's largest endodontic exhibit hall and several special events, including the Association's annual awards ceremony.

Keynote speaker Dr. Michio Kaku, renowned futurist and best-selling author of The Future of the Mind, gripped attendees at the General Session, where he shared his vision of new technologies that will impact society in the future. While Dr. Kaku predicts "robo-doctors" that will diagnose you in your home, he also acknowledged, "[To succeed in the future] you have to supply something which robots cannot – intellectual capital."

Following that theme, outgoing AAE President Robert S. Roda told attendees, "If we're going to shape the future, we need an organization that can study, that can learn and that can act." Dr. Roda recapped the accomplishments of the Association during his term, including the hiring of new Executive Director Peter S. Weber and environmental scanning and quality improvement projects that are helping the AAE prepare for the future of the specialty.

In her first remarks as AAE President, Dr. Terryl A. Propper said she hopes to increase engagement and involvement in the Association by the next generation of endodontists. "I want to inspire a process that will yield effective change for our members and our specialty."

The AAE Foundation closed out its year-long fundraising campaign with $1.221 million raised against a goal of $1.25 million. A leadership pledge of $350,000 from EdgeEndo helped to complete another successful effort. The Foundation has allocated $1.6 million in 2015 to support research and education in endodontics, including awards for each endodontic resident, educator fellowship awards, endowed faculty matching grants and support for a variety of research priorities.

During AAE15, 81 new Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics were recognized for their achievements. These Board-certified endodontists complete written, case history and oral exams demonstrating their exceptional knowledge, skill and expertise in the specialty of endodontics, commitment to quality patient care and dedication to professional growth.

The AAE also unveiled new resources during the meeting to support endodontists in their careers and to educate patients. The new Career Center is an online job board that allows visitors to post available endodontic positions, easily search and apply for jobs and connect to practices for sale. New Career Resources also are available to help with career planning, including understanding emerging practice models, negotiating employment contracts, job search tips and starting a practice. Currently, more than 130 positions are posted.

The AAE also debuted the fourth production in its series of 3-D animated patient education videos. The new video on endodontic surgery illustrates the most common form of surgery, apicoectomy, in an easy-to-understand animated video. It highlights the advanced training and equipment used by endodontists to perform endodontic surgery to save the natural dentition. All of the AAE's videos are available on its YouTube channel for viewing or embedding into practice websites. 

PITTSTON, PA — Benco Dental, the nation’s largest privately-owned distributor of dental products and equipment, has announced plans to acquire Brooklyn-based Dental Connections, Inc. on June 8, 2015. This marks Benco Dental’s first acquisition in the New York metropolitan area.

Dental Connections, Inc., a family-owned service and installation enterprise with customer service at the heart of its operations, has been serving the New York City market for more than 35 years, and under the same ownership since its inception. Dental Connections' founders, Joseph and Barney Zaino, will continue on with Benco Dental.

“Our mission at Dental Connections, Inc. has always been to support our customers and our community alike,” Barney Zaino said.

Joseph Zaino added, “For over 35 years, we have been dedicated to serving our clients with integrity and a personable approach. We wish to thank you all for your support over the years and look forward to working together in our new venture in the near future. As a family-owned business, we were pleased to merge with another family-owned business that’s focused on delighting customers.”

Charles Cohen, Benco Dental Managing Director, said that he looked forward to introducing Benco’s full-service approach to Dental Connections’ loyal customer base.

“As part of the Benco difference, we strive to deliver an exceptional customer experience and focus on seeking out companies who do the same,” Cohen said. “As with each company acquired, our goal is to combine Dental Connections’ success with Benco Dental’s industry expertise and passion for excellence.”

He added: “We love and respect the deep relationships that the Zainos have developed with their customers.”

ROCK HILL, South Carolina – 3D Systems Corporation has announced that it entered into a mutual separation agreement with Ted Hull, its Chief Financial Officer, effective as of the end of the day on May 15, 2015, pursuant to which Hull was to leave the company in order to meet company needs and to pursue his personal interests.

The company further announced that David Styka, who had been Chief Accounting Officer, has been named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective as of Hull's departure.

Styka, 53, has been employed with 3D Systems since January after serving as Vice President – Finance and Treasurer at Family Dollar since April 2014. Previously he served as Vice President – Finance at Family Dollar from March 2011 to April 2014, and Divisional Vice President – Tax and Inventory from July 2008 to March 2011.

"We are deeply grateful to Ted for his stewardship of our Finance organization and wish him much success in his pursuit of other personal interests," said Avi Reichental, President and Chief Executive Officer, 3DS. "We are very fortunate to have a strong and capable financial executive of the caliber of Dave Styka ready to assume the role of Chief Financial Officer. Since his arrival at 3D Systems, Dave has gained a deep understanding of our business and quickly has become a key advisor to me and the rest of our senior leadership team. Dave brings substantial finance and accounting leadership experience to the role and we are confident taking the next leg of our growth journey with him as our CFO."

Styka earned a BSBA in Accounting from John Carroll University and an MBA from Wake Forest University. He has a CPA certification from the state of North Carolina. Additionally, he has worked in public accounting at Ernst & Young and Deloitte & Touche and served in finance leadership roles at Wellman, Inc. and Family Dollar Stores, Inc.

IMILLING President Felix Chung sadly reported the unexpected loss of a valued member of his team, Franklin Panemeno.

In a press release, IMILLING said:

"Franklin, an extremely talented CAD/CAM technician, lost his life in a tragic auto accident on the morning of April 25. Although a relative newcomer to the dental laboratory industry, joining IMILLING in 2013 at the encouragement of a friend, Franklin was dedicated to the industry, showed tremendous promise, and was eager to perfect his craft. He was a young man who was always cheerful, friendly to all, and meant so much to so many people. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him."

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 19, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Temple University's Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry and Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ: HSIC), the world's largest provider of health care products and services to office-based dental, animal health and medical practitioners, have announced the creation of the Henry Schein Digital Center of Excellence.

The Kornberg School of Dentistry's new center, anticipated to open in the next 12 months, will serve as a digital dentistry training hub for students, faculty and alumni, enhancing dental education and demonstrating how digital technology can lead to improved patient care and outcomes.

"The Henry Schein Digital Center of Excellence at the Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry represents a new private-public collaboration to advance the skills and knowledge of current and future dentists in the new and rapidly emerging era of digital dentistry," said Kornberg School of Dentistry Dean Amid Ismail. "Starting this fall, the predoctoral and postdoctoral clinics at the dental school will be offered a digital dentistry alternative to traditional restorative care."

Dean Ismail announced the center during his commencement remarks to the 2015 dental school graduates at Temple on May 15. At the same ceremony, Henry Schein Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Stanley M. Bergman, reinforced the Company's support for the creation of the center, which will be equipped with the latest innovations in digital technology, including computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing solutions, digital radiography, intraoral cameras and practice management software solutions from Henry Schein and its supplier partners. 

"Nothing is more impressive in our profession than the continuing acceleration of oral health technology," said Mr. Bergman. "Our support for the creation of the Henry Schein Digital Center of Excellence at Temple's Kornberg School of Dentistry underscores our commitment to be a reliable source of the latest digital dental equipment and technology for students and practitioners. This center will serve the ultimate purpose of helping practitioners operate successful practices and improve patient care."

The 31^st Annual American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Scientific Session wrapped up on May 9^th at the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco. More than 1,800 people attended the conference, which consisted of four days of educational programming including 65 lectures, 35 hands-on workshops, live dentistry, and three entertaining and informative General Sessions, including a kick-off with TV’s Dr. Drew.

This year’s offerings included a series of Power Sessions – hard-hitting and timely courses on topics such as smile design, implants, veneers, and practice management. Also, five international dentists who have established themselves early in their dental careers presented rapid-fire lectures that educated and inspired attendees about where cosmetic dentistry is headed. The programming was rounded out with a Lab Focus on a variety of topics. 

In addition to rich educational opportunities, the Scientific Session is a chance for the Academy to recognize and honor its members who have demonstrated their dedication to continuing education and responsible patient care by becoming Accredited. This year, the AACD welcomed nine newly Accredited Members and five Accredited Fellows to its ranks. Other exemplary members of the Academy were recognized with Celebration of Excellence Awards, known as the Evy. This year, the AACD awarded Evys to:

·       Dr. Peter Auster – 2015 Humanitarian of the Year

·       Dr. Scott Finlay – 2015 Outstanding Service to the Academy Award

·       Dr. Ed Lowe – 2015 Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry Award

·       Dr. Buddy Mopper – 2015 Outstanding Innovation in Cosmetic Dentistry Award

·       Dr. Bradley J. Olson – 2015 Excellence in Cosmetic Dentistry Education Award

·       Dr. Dennis Wells – 2015 Rising Star Award

·       Dr. Marty Zase – 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award

Attendees to the conference also enjoyed the many opportunities to socialize with friends and colleagues. The California Academy of Sciences, with its planetarium, aquariums, and other enchanting exhibits, served as the backdrop to this year’s Welcome Reception. Attendees partied with a purpose at Slide, a San Francisco speakeasy, to raise funds for the AACD Charitable Foundation’s Give Back a Smile program. And the week wouldn’t have been complete without the Celebration of Excellence Gala, an Emerald City themed formal event that had everyone saying, “There’s no place like an AACD Scientific Session.” 

With AACD 2015 on record, the Academy is already looking ahead. Next year, AACD 2016 is jumping the border to Toronto. In efforts to constantly outdo itself bringing its attendees the absolute best in cosmetic dentistry education, the 32^nd Annual AACD Scientific Session will take place on April 27-30, 2016 and will have three themed days that build upon each other. Design, Implementation, and Realization will deliver comprehensive and cumulative sessions making a positive difference in your practice as soon as you get back to work on Monday.

Registration for Toronto is already open. Visit https://aacd.com/conference for more information.

Roselle, Ill. - Planmeca has announced open registration for The Power of Digital Dentistry Conference, the first-ever conference bringing together Planmeca Romexis, Imaging, and CAD/CAM users. The conference will be held October 16-17 at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas. A discount of $300 is available for dentist and laboratory technician attendees who register on or before May 31. Low rates are also available for auxiliary teams and other attendees.

To register, visit powerofdigitaldentistry.com.

The conference will host more than 20 distinguished panelists, speakers, and industry leaders, and feature more than 30 educational and hands-on courses led by top imaging and CAD/CAM industry leaders. 

Topics include but are not limited to:

- Restorative Success with Digital Dentistry

- Advanced Utilization  of 3D Technology

- Patient Virtualization - Digital Implant diagnosis

- The Ultimate Dental Assistant

- The Power of Teamwork  in Restorative Diagnosis and Care

- Marketing Your High Tech Practice

"We are very excited about the level of enthusiasm we have received from speakers, sponsors, and attendees for this unique conference," said Bob Pienkowski, president of PlanmecaUSA. "We look forward to bringing together the leaders in the dental industry and our customers for two days of inspiration, connection, and the opportunity to experience the latest in Planmeca innovations."

The lead sponsor for the conference is Planmeca, a leading global dental products company. Additional sponsors include Ivoclar Vivadent and Premier Dental.

For more information, go to powerofdigitaldentistry.com.

FOLLOW-ME! has reinforced its sales, support, and development structure by opening FOLLOW-ME! Technology North America Corp. in Bedford, New Hampshire, just outside of Boston. Establishing the new subsidiary will allow current hyperDENT customers in the US to be serviced more effectively, while also making hyperDENT CAM technology more accessible to new users.

“The demand for a scalable CAM solution in the US is increasing rapidly, and hyperDENT’s versatility makes it the best-suited product to fulfill the growing need,” explains Jordan Greenberg, Managing Director of the new subsidiary.

Greenberg brings nearly a decade of CAD/CAM expertise in the dental field to FOLLOW-ME! Most recently, he was involved in the development of an in-house milling solution for titanium and chrome cobalt implant parts utilizing FOLLOW-ME!’s flagship product, hyperDENT Classic. This particular software package, commonly paired with the hyperDENT Template Generator and Abutment Creator, is often the choice for laboratories or milling centers with industrial-grade mills or demanding applications that require a robust, flexible, and reliable CAM solution.    

Rounding up the FOLLOW-ME! product lineup is hyperDENT Compact, a high-end starter software with a favorable price/performance ratio. This CAM package unlocks the true potential of common benchtop-type mills, while staying sensitive to the lower-cost nature of this machine category.

“In other markets, namely Italy and Asia, hyperDENT Compact has significantly reduced the amount of failed calculations and mis-milled parts when compared to other CAM solutions due to its unrivaled stability and advanced core technology,” added Ferdinand Schwenkert, CEO, FOLLOW-ME! Technology Group.

The North American office joins 6 locations worldwide to make up the FOLLOW-ME! Technology Group. This includes global headquarters in Munich, with development and support in Berlin, Milan, Singapore, Shenzhen, and Seoul. To help support the quickly growing Asian market, an additional office in Tokyo will open shortly.

 Chicago (May 15, 2015) — A recently released National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) data brief details the results of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2012. The NHANES survey is co-sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). 

Data from the NHANES 2011-2012 indicates that approximately 91 percent of adult Americans between the ages of 20 and 64 have dental caries. The high prevalence of the caries underscores the importance of preventive oral health care, according to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). 

“This report reinforces the need for greater attention to prevention as it relates to oral health,” said ADHA President Kelli Swanson Jaecks, MA, RDH. “Effective strategies for assessing caries risk and management are well-documented in current scientific literature, and yet the condition remains prevalent, and is even increasing in vulnerable populations.” 

The NHANES 2011-2012 focused on age and ethnicity as related to incidence of caries, presence of untreated caries, retention of all permanent teeth and complete edentulousness.

Findings included that while the adults most likely to experience caries are non-Hispanic white, the ones most likely to have untreated caries were are non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic. Non-Hispanic black adults were also the most likely to be edentulous. 

“People are living longer,” said ADHA Executive Director Ann Battrell, MSDH, “and the factors that affect oral and overall health are becoming increasingly complex as the American population ages. The information from this data brief allows oral health care providers to use an evidence-based approach to preventive oral health care and disease management. Our collective efforts can improve the public’s overall health and quality of life.”  

The surgical procedure known as neck dissection to remove lymph nodes and receiving treatment at academic or research institutions was associated with improved survival in patients with stages I and II oral cavity squamous cell cancer (OCSCC), according to a report published online by JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery.

There were about 28,000 cases of OCSCC in the United States in 2014 and about 5,500 deaths predicted. About 60% of patients with OCSCC are initially seen with early stage disease (either I or II). Prognosis depends on many factors, including patient age, stage at diagnosis and the primary site of the disease, with an average five-year survival rate of 80 percent. Treatment of early OCSCC has not changed substantially in several decades and improvement in outcomes has been slow. The role of neck dissection in early OCSCC remains controversial, according to the study background.

Benjamin L. Judson, M.D., of the Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn., and coauthors analyzed the associations between various treatment characteristics and survival in stages I and II OCSCC. The study was a review of cases in the National Cancer Data Base and included 6,830 patients.

Survival at five years was 69.7% (4,760 patients), according to the study results. The authors found neck dissection and treatment at academic or research institutions were associated with improved survival, while positive margins, insurance through Medicare or Medicaid, and radiation or chemotherapy were associated with reduced survival.

Patients treated at academic or research cancer centers were more likely to receive neck dissection and were less likely to receive radiation therapy or have positive margins than those patients treated at nonacademic centers.

"Identification of the underlying causes of these differences could reveal valuable targets for improvement of outcomes in early OCSCC," the study concludes.

Source: Science Daily