New research published online in The FASEB Journal, shows that melanocortin agonism may effectively control the inflammation that often occurs in gum tissue, which when unchecked, ultimately accelerates tooth and bone loss. This research involving mice, opens the door to a new class of treatments for gum disease.

"Controlling inflammation during gum disease is a key step to avoid alveolar bone resorption, tooth loss and, thus, improve the quality of life of patients," said Mila Madeira, Ph.D., a researcher involved in the work from the Department of Microbiology at the Biologic Science Institute at the Universidad Federal de Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.

To make their discovery, Madeira and colleagues used several groups of mice. The first group was infected with bacteria related to gum disease and then treated them with a melanocortin agonist. The second group had no infection. The third group was infected, but not treated. The final group was infected but treated with a placebo. Melanocortin agonism was associated with reduced alveolar bone resorption and less inflammation, a critical feature to be controlled in gum diseases.

"Attenuation of the inflammatory axis of periodontal pathology cannot be overstated in its importance ," said Thoru Pederson, Ph.D., Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal. "These findings provide an entirely new approach to this highly prevalent condition."

Carlsbad, CA – (August 16, 2016) – Zest Anchors, regarded as a global leader and pioneer in the design and manufacturing of overdenture treatment technologies, today unveiled Zest Dental Solutions as its new company name reflecting both the evolution the company has realized and its vision for the future.

For nearly 40 years, Zest Anchors has focused on improving the lives of edentulous patients throughout the world with innovative, functional products for overdenture treatment. The company’s flagship product, the LOCATOR® Attachment System, continues to be recognized by the implant industry, clinicians and patients as the most trusted brand for overdenture restorations. Never remaining idle, the company set its sights on providing more patient solutions by introducing a line of narrow diameter dental implants, the CHAIRSIDE® Product Portfolio consisting of dental tools and materials for overdenture modification and processing, and the next generation LOCATOR R-Tx™ Removable Attachment System. The company will enter the fixed full arch restoration segment with its innovative LOCATOR F-Tx™ Fixed Attachment System with a commercial launch slated for Q4. In early 2016, further expanding the breadth of its product portfolio, the company acquired Danville Materials, a leading manufacturer of restorative consumables, small equipment, and unique minimally invasive treatment solutions such as Perioscopy. This acquisition propels and positions Zest as a company that offers product solutions for a continuum of patient care from preservation of natural teeth to edentulous treatment options.

Zest’s success and evolution has led it to be much more than just an “Anchors” company deserving of a name that mirrors its vision for the future. It is for this reason that Zest Anchors, Danville Materials, and the Perioscopy product portfolios will all roll up under the umbrella company name Zest Dental Solutions, with the new name reflecting the diversity of the product portfolio and positioning the company for continued growth and future expansion. As a result of this growth and expansion, Zest Dental Solutions (zestdent.com) has moved into a new 46,000 square foot Corporate Headquarters located in Carlsbad, California. Zest Dental Solutions total facility footprint will be in excess of 75,000 square feet.

“Customers and patients have come to know and trust Zest for delivering high quality products that work”, said Steve Schiess, Zest Dental Solutions CEO. “Adding Dental Solutions to the name not only reinforces Zest as a solutions based company, it shows our valued customers that the company is committed to continuing its innovative spirit by delivering future solutions to meet their needs.”

For more information about Zest Dental Solutions new branding, or information about the new Corporate Headquarters, please visit our website at www.zestdent.com.

Dentsply Sirona, The Dental Solutions Company™, concluded 2016’s SIROWORLD: The Ultimate Dental Meeting on Saturday, Aug 13. The event closed after three days of countless networking opportunities, comprehensive and educational clinical content, a wide-ranging trade show floor and exceptional entertainment. 

SIROWORLD commenced on Thursday, Aug. 11, with more than 4,000 dental professionals eagerly arriving at the Rosen Shingle Creek for a bustling weekend of clinical and business education.   

Thursday began with the opening General Session, featuring Dentsply Sirona CEO Jeffrey Slovin, Group Senior Vice President of the U.S. Commercial Organization Michael Augins and the always-entertaining Director of Clinical Affairs Dr. Mike DiTolla as the master of ceremonies.

After the initial introduction by Dentsply Sirona leaders during the opening session, Dr. Tarun Agarwal, Dr. Lyndon Cooper, Dr. Dennis Fasbinder, Dr. Sameer Puri, Shannon Richkowski and Dr. John West all took the stage one after another to engage and excite SIROWORLD attendees for the coming breakouts and festivities that comprised the ultimate dental meeting.

More than 150 presenters spoke during the approximately 200 breakout sessions held throughout the event.

The 95,000 square-foot trade show hall, with more than 50 vendors showcasing the best products and services in the industry, opened at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday and remained open throughout each day of the event.

Thursday concluded with an inviting Welcome Reception, a thought-provoking and interactive Q&A session with Sir Richard Branson, business mogul and one of Forbes World’s Billionaires, and lastly, a sidesplitting standup performance by legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld.

Friday morning started early with the traditional fun run, back by popular demand. The Go for the Gold Fun Run attracted many who donned their favorite country’s colors and were ready to begin the day with a fun, laidback workout.

The agenda also included a myriad breakout sessions and two General Sessions by Dr. Frank Spear, founder of Spear Education, and by therapist, comedienne and author Connie Podesta.

Following the completion of breakouts on Friday, the Tailgate party kicked off for attendees to relax and mingle before heading to an epic exclusive concert by Grammy-Award nominated band OneRepublic, who gave a wonderfully energetic performance that had attendees on their feet through the entirety of the show.

The entertainment and fun fitness activities continued the following morning where guests joined Tao Bo® creator Billy Blanks for an invigorating fitness workout on the outdoor terrace to prepare for the last day of the ultimate dental meeting.

Close to 100 breakout sessions were available on Saturday for guests to finish SIROWORLD strong and gain the maximum amount of CE available.

Saturday evening, guests celebrated the conclusion of SIROWORLD at the Ultimate Glow Party, located inside the Rosen Shingle.  Attendees came in their brightest neon colors and enjoyed the colorful ambiance, the giant LED dance floor and an incredible local band playing, Hot Property.

During SIROWORLD 2016, Dentsply Sirona announced that next year’s event, Dentsply Sirona World 2017, will be back in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Venetian and Palazzo hotel from Sept. 14-16.

Registration for Dentsply Sirona World 2017 is open, so be sure to register early to reserve your spot at the next best meeting in dentistry!

For more information, visit www.dentsplysirona-world.com

Canonsburg, PA – SciCan has set the benchmark for sterilization and instrument reprocessing technology. For more than 20 years, SciCan has been developing and manufacturing highly innovative infection control products that address the need for versatility, flexibility, and efficiency in today’s environments.

SciCan is proud to announce the StatClean Ultrasonic Cleaner. StatClean’s 1.6 gallon tank and convenient self docking lid holds a variety of instruments in the unique hands free drying basket, making it the perfect ultrasonic to complete your reprocessing needs.

Quiet – StatClean’s 4.5 mm thick wall housing, made from engineering grade plastic, making it one of the quietest ultrasonic units on the market.

Power - Two industrial grade ultrasonic transducers provide uniform distribution of ultrasonic waves, strong cleaning, and high durability. The independent control circuits for each transducer increase cleaning efficiency by 40% over other ultrasonic units. Two ceramic heaters are mounted under StatClean’s tank for safe and even heating, while the two cooling fans improve heat dissipation.

Easy To Use - StatClean’s 3 color LED display accurately displays the 1 – 30 minute timer and 5 temperature settings. The LED display also allows users to easily view the actual temperature of the tanks solution and the solutions usage timer. The easy to access drainage valve eliminates the need to manually empty a tank of solution, eliminating the possibly of spills and a messy clean up.

OPTIM 28 - OPTIM 28 is the cleaner of choice for StatClean. It provides quick and superior cleaning of instruments, gentle for staff and equipment. OPTIM 28 contains Stabilized Hydrogen Peroxide, a highly effective means of cleaning organic debris. It is non-corrosive when used at the correct dilution and effective against protein, carbohydrates and lipids.

Dentsply Sirona Inc. has announced a strategic collaboration with AvaDent Digital Dental Solutions to promote, distribute, and service digital denture products in the US.

Tom Leonardi, Dentsply Sirona Group Vice President, Global Prosthetics, commented, "This collaboration is an exciting endeavor for both companies and synergistic with the new Dentsply Sirona mission to deliver innovative dental solutions to improve oral health worldwide. Through this collaboration, we will advance digital denture solutions in the dental laboratory market, bringing together Dentsply Sirona’s market leadership in removable prosthetic materials and CAD/CAM solutions with AvaDent’s recognition as an innovator and leader in true digital denture solutions. Digital dentures deliver real value for the dental laboratory, the dentist, and ultimately the patient. AvaDent offers a broad portfolio of digital prosthetic options, making it a great complement to our material and CAD/CAM products. This agreement underscores our commitment as a leader in removable prosthetics to drive growth and create shareholder value."

Tim Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of AvaDent, commented, “Dentsply Sirona is recognized as the world's largest manufacturer of professional dental products and technologies, with a strong history of innovation within the dental industry. Dentsply Sirona prosthetic materials have been the market-leading premium brands in prosthetic dentistry for many decades. AvaDent is the market leader in digital dentistry for prosthetics. Our commitment to innovation and product development enables us to provide dental practitioners, technicians, and laboratories with solutions for advancing dentistry and improving patient care. This partnership, aligning our strengths and shared mission in the dental industry, makes sense.”

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL) August 16, 2016—Zimmer Biomet (NYSE and SIX: ZBH), a global leader in musculoskeletal healthcare, is pleased to announce the launch of TSVT and TSVM MP-1® HA Dental Implants, manufactured by Zimmer Dental. An extension of the successful1 Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant Family, these additional implant configurations are designed to address clinical challenges and preferences for crestal bone maintenance and soft tissue management through coronal texturing options with microgrooves.

TSVT and TSVM MP-1 HA Implants feature a highly crystalline MP-1 HA-coated midsection designed to resist dissolution for long-term coating stability, while achieving high levels of bone-to-implant contact.1 The TSVT and TSVM MP-1 HA Implants are available in the same diameters and lengths as existing TSV™ Implants. New configuration options include:

• TSVT: MTX® microtexturing to the top of the implant, coronal microgrooves and an MP-1 HA-coated midsection

• TSVM: 0.5mm machined collar, coronal microgrooves with the MTX Surface and an MP-1 HA- coated midsection

“We are excited to offer dental clinicians these contemporary options from Zimmer Biomet to expand their surgical repertoires. Importantly, the TSVT and TSVM MP-1 HA Implants offer the same primary stability, prosthetic stability and long-term clinical success that have been well documented over the past 15 years with the Tapered Screw-Vent Implant Family,” said David Josza, General Manager of Zimmer Biomet’s dental division. “As we continue to expand our dental offerings to address a broad range of clinical situations and surgeon preference, we will continue focusing on our customers with an innovative dental portfolio of implant and regenerative solutions, leading service and support capabilities and world-class medical education.”

TSVT and TSVM MP-1 HA Implants feature the exclusive Platform Plus™ Technology, which minimizes micromovement and screw-loosening for prosthetic stability and creates highly favorable conditions for long-term crestal bone maintenance:

• Lead-in Bevel – Designed to reduce horizontal stresses better than flat “butt-joint” connections¹

• Friction-Fit Connection – Virtually eliminates abutment micromovement leading to screw loosening¹

• 1.5mm Deep Internal Hex – Shields the abutment retention screw from excess loading, distributing occlusal forces deep into the implant¹

All references contained herein to Zimmer Biomet Dental refer to the Zimmer Biomet Dental Division. Due to regulatory requirements, Zimmer Biomet’s dental division will continue to manufacture products under Zimmer Dental Inc. and Biomet 3i LLC respectively until further notice.

¹Data on file

CHICAGO (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Linda Caradine-Poinsett, MJ, MBA, PhD is the new Executive Director of the international not-for-profit American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) and its foundation, the ACP Education Foundation (ACPEF), effective Sept. 12.

"I join an organization whose members led the ACP to release the first clinical practice guidelines on how to care for restored teeth, where members write and publish position statements, and where the ACP's Journal of Prosthodontics is emerging as an industry 'must-read'," said Dr. Caradine-Poinsett.

"This is an exciting time of change and growth for prosthodontics," said ACP President Carl F. Driscoll, DMD, FACP. "With her extensive experience in healthcare, law, and a passion for leadership, Linda is uniquely qualified to ensure that we continue to serve the needs of our members and shape the specialty's future in organized dentistry, in the dental industry, and with the public."

Dr. Caradine-Poinsett received a bachelor of science in healthcare administration and an MBA with an emphasis in finance at National-Louis University in Chicago. She earned a master of jurisprudence degree (MJ) in health law from Loyola University and in 2015, completed her PhD in organizational leadership and structure from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

"The search for a new executive director was an invigorating exercise in that so many candidates remarked on the outstanding growth, direction, and continuous stewardship that our ACP has demonstrated over the past decade," said ACPEF Chair Lyndon F. Cooper, DDS, PhD, FACP.

"Linda's enthusiastic engagement of our vision and her truly remarkable skill set promise that our organization representing the specialty of prosthodontics will continue its leadership role in organized dentistry, enhance and enable education, provide outstanding service to our members, and build a future of continuous improvement in patient care and service."

Dr. Caradine-Poinsett joins the ACP from her role of Executive Director for the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists. Previously, she has served as Associate Director of the Section of Litigation with the American Bar Association overseeing a budget of $7 million and as Executive Director for the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Foundation. Her experience also includes holding high-level positions at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America – Midwest and the American Dental Hygienists Association.

"I'm coming back home to dentistry. Prosthodontists are trailblazers in digital dentistry and oral health solutions. With 120 million Americans missing one or more teeth and 36 million Americans missing all of their teeth in one or both jaws, our nation's oral health need is so great. I look forward to working with visionary leaders and talented staff as we collectively fulfill our mission," said Dr. Caradine-Poinsett.

Dr. Caradine-Poinsett is a member of the Association Forum, the American Society of Association Executives, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the American College of Healthcare Executives. She is also active in the Chicago Health Executive Forum, the Health Care Compliance Association, and the National Association for Female Executives.

Prosthodontists are specialized dentists with advanced training in oral health issues, who are committed to improving patient outcomes. From implants, crowns, veneers and tooth whitening, to full-mouth reconstruction, prosthodontists specialize in digital dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and sleep apnea solutions.

The ACP is the only prosthodontic specialty organization whose membership is based solely on education credentials. ACP members must be in or have completed an ADA-accredited advanced education program in Prosthodontics.

Argen Corporation has chosen Concept Laser machines for 3D metal printing of high noble, noble, and non-precious alloys. With 3D metal printing, also known as metal additive manufacturing, Argen manufactures its portfolio of digitally fabricated dental restorations from single unit to long span bridges using LaserCUSING®, which builds these products layer-by-layer directly from 3D CAD data. The metal powder is melted entirely to provide a fully dense, homogenous structure. The end result is high detail resolution and exceptional surface finish. Argen currently has nine Concept Laser Mlab cusing machines in its 40,000-square-foot facility in San Diego. 

“Argen has over 2 decades of experience in alloy development so we were attracted to Concept Laser machines because they don’t restrict us to use certain materials, or exclusively enforce the use of an OEM’s powders. It is this flexibility, coupled with developing our own parameters, that made Concept Laser a winner,” says Paul Cascone, Sr. VP of Research and Development at Argen. Argen is actively developing alloys to specifically run on the Mlab cusing machines. 

The Mlab cusing machines are the most compatible for Argen’s business, given its smaller build volume is ideal for precious metals as it allows the user to work with smaller batches. “Our digital outsourcing business has continued to double each year. The Concept Laser Mlab cusing machines have given us the flexibility to grow at a rapid pace, while continuing to innovate with new materials. The smaller build plate allows us to utilize high cost precious metals in a lean work flow”, says Anton Woolf, CEO of Argen. 

“Concept Laser is thrilled to be chosen as a platform for Argen’s metal additive manufacturing. We admire their approach to innovation and their thought leadership in digital dental technologies”, says John Murray, President and CEO of Concept Laser Inc. 

Orascoptic™, the leader in superior vision solutions for dental and medical professionals introduces EyeZoom™ Mini – a loupe that employs two-step variable magnification technology between 2.5x and 3.5x power. 

The second loupe launched under the EyeZoom moniker, EyeZoom Mini invites the user to zoom in to view finer details and zoom out for a wider field of view. By bringing the operating site closer and into focus, the loupe helps improve one’s speed and efficiency in the operatory, while reducing interruptions in the flow of patient care. 

With a consistent working distance at each magnification level, the loupe helps reduce the need to reposition when switching between magnification levels. This innovative patent-pending design was co-engineered by optical pioneers, Orascoptic and Konica Minolta^®. 

The EyeZoom Mini is available on Orascoptic’s Legend™, Rave™, Rydon™, and Victory™ frames. The loupe is available in a through-the-lens (TTL) configuration. 

A recent study revealed that Dentsply Sirona’s Celtra Duo (ZLS) ranked highest in fracture toughness (K_IC) when compared with five different chairside CAD/CAM materials used for crown fabrication. Conducted by the University of Toronto, the complete study report entitled, “Fracture toughness of chairside CAD/CAM materials – Alternative loading approach for compact tension test,” is published in the July 2016 edition of Dental Materials, the official publication of The Academy of Dental Materials. 

The study applied a modified compact tension (CT) test in order to measure fracture toughness of the group of restorative CAD/CAM materials that included both ceramics and nanoceramic resin composite materials. Five different chairside CAD/CAM blocks including VITA^® Mark II, Lava™ Ultimate, VITA Enamic, IPS e.max CAD, and Celtra Duo (ZLS) were tested. Means and standard deviations of fracture toughness measured in MPa m^1/2 for the materials are as follows:

·       Celtra Duo (ZLS) (fired and unfired) – 2.65 (0.32), and 1.01 (0.15) respectively

·       IPS e.max CAD (crystallized and un-crystallized) – 1.88 (0.62), and 0.81 (0.25) respectively

·       VITA Enamic – 1.02 (0.19)

·       Lava Ultimate – 0.85 (0.21)

·       VITA Mark II – 0.73 (0.13)

Celtra Duo (ZLS) and e.max had the notably highest mean toughness values, with Celtra Duo (ZLS) found to be higher than that of e.max. Both leading materials had a substantial increase in fracture toughness after firing. Although the mean K_IC values of the tested materials varied considerably, none were able to reach the mean K_IC of natural dentin, previously reported at 3.08 MPa m^1/2.

According to the report, the difference in IPS e.max CAD and Celtra Duo (ZLS) fracture toughness is most likely due to Celtra Duo’s (ZLS) composition. Celtra Duo (ZLS) is mainly composed of 58% silica, lithium-metasilicate, -disilicate, and -phosphate crystals, and 10% zirconia crystals in addition to other minor ingredients. The highly dispersed zirconia content is completely dissolved in a glassy matrix and acts as a crystal nucleus. Zirconia-based ceramics are known for their enhanced load resistance and fracture toughness compared to alumina- or lithium-disilicate ceramics.

Dental restorations must be extremely durable in order to resist damaging effects of a harsh oral environment. Fracture toughness is an essential property of any material that relates its resistance to crack propagation which imminently causes failure. A restorative material with high fracture toughness shows better fracture resistance and longevity as compared to materials with lower fracture toughness. Moreover, during the CAD/CAM milling process, grinding of the blocks creates micro-cracks and flaws that are routinely smoothed with polishing and glazing.

To review a complete version of the study, please refer to the July 2016 issue of Dental Materials or contact 855-723-5872. 

For additional information on Celtra Duo (ZLS), please visit www.dentsplysirona.com.