An article about a recent clinical study, “Dental Erosion, GERD, and Salivary Stimulation,” published in the Journal of Oral & Dental Health, February 2018, reports that OraCoat® XyliMelts® oral adhering discs used while sleeping reduce reflux of stomach acids, in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes tooth erosion. In patients with GERD, the esophagus is exposed to stomach acid long enough to cause symptoms.

GERD is estimated to occur in ten to thirty percent of the population in developed countries and is known to contribute to or cause a number of medical and dental problems including heartburn (chest pain), sore throat, mucosal pathology, bruxism, and tooth erosion. The condition is also associated with sleep disturbance and can have a detrimental effect on nighttime comfort and overall quality of life. Saliva is believed to play an integral role in combatting symptoms of GERD by protecting the esophageal lining by way of diluting and neutralizing stomach acid that enters the esophagus through reflux. However, saliva production normally decreases at night and, when the body is prone, gravity no longer helps to keep the acid down.

The study was conducted as a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial involving two over-the-counter products currently on the market for use in the management of dry mouth symptoms, one a sweet gel, and the other XyliMelts oral adhering discs that contain 550 mg of xylitol for sweetness to stimulate saliva flow, cellulose gum to slow dissolution and lubricate the mouth, a layer of acacia gum to adhere to gingiva or teeth, and a small amount of calcium carbonate to neutralize acidity. XyliMelts used at night while sleeping is the most effective per gram delivery of xylitol to maintain an adequate concentration of saliva in the mouth to reduce tooth decay.

Results of the study revealed that nightly use of both XyliMelts and the sweet gel remedies significantly reduced symptoms associated with GERD, including reflux acid taste, nighttime heartburn, morning hoarseness, and perceived reflux. Moreover, XyliMelts were found to be generally more effective in reducing GERD symptoms than the gel, and significantly more effective in improving heartburn. These study results carry important implications for dentists treating erosion associated with GERD, and offer a viable remedy for GERD sufferers to combine with dental restorative care and medical intervention to manage erosion and all the problems of acid reflux while sleeping.

No significant side effects were reported from any participants during product use.

XyliMelts are available over the counter at CVS, Rite Aid, and are coming to Walmart in March 2018. For more information on XyliMelts, visit www.oracoat.com

Uniform standards for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis outlined in white paper by American Association of Endodontists:

While all dentists are trained in endodontics, that training varies greatly, as does the clinical experience of each dentist. To help ensure that patients receive the best possible care from all practitioners at the highest standards, the American Association of Endodontists supports a single standard of endodontic education and care to provide patients with the highest quality care with the best result — saving their natural teeth. This single standard emphasizes endodontic competency and encourages general dentists to undergo additional training, recognize their limitations, and consult with specialists on treatment planning and referral.

"The AAE recognizes that there are great variations in endodontic educational experiences among all dentists. Despite these variations, it is essential that the knowledge base, competence and clinical performance of endodontic procedures by all practicing dentists meet a certain standard of care," said AAE President Dr. Garry L. Myers. "As such, the AAE has developed this comprehensive document outlining the minimum standards any dentist should meet, regardless of education or years of experience, when providing endodontic care to their patients."

As the global leaders in advocating the value and quality of endodontics, the AAE developed the Endodontic Competency White Paper to identify the knowledge and skill that should provide a standard for all practitioners who diagnose, develop a treatment plan, and perform endodontic procedures.

The white paper focuses on three key areas critical to competent endodontic treatment: diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis:

1. Diagnostic standards include the ability of the dentist to assimilate the necessary subjective, objective and radiographic information to establish a pulpal and/or periapical diagnosis, provide appropriate emergency care and referral, and maintain proper patient records and documentation.

2. Treatment planning standards include case assessment to evaluate the difficulty of treatment and consideration of referral, development of a treatment plan that takes into account the restorability of the tooth, and special consideration for traumatic dental injuries.

3. Competency in the prognosis of endodontic treatment requires that clinicians be able to forecast the outcome of initial nonsurgical root canal treatment.

These guidelines were developed to assist educational institutions and organized dentistry in developing minimum educational requirements and skill requisites needed to perform endodontic treatment. The AAE's goal is a consistent endodontic curriculum that provides predoctoral students with a firmer foundation in the specialty, including a better understanding of the biologic basis of endodontic disease, diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis, as well as today's state-of-the-art techniques and technologies.

"All clinicians must keep current with advances that are generally accepted and embraced by the endodontic specialty," explained Dr. Myers. "Endodontic best practices change with time and it is the responsibility of practitioners to be aware of such changes for those procedures they perform. The general dentist must perform endodontic care at the same level as the specialist, and it's in everyone's best interests, especially the patient's, to do so."

The Endodontic Competency White Paper is available on the AAE website at aae.org/guidelines. Practitioners are encouraged to use it as a reference with endodontic cases and educators should consider the competencies and intents when developing predoctoral curriculum.

At the Chicago Dental Society’s (CDS) Midwinter Meeting, February 22–24, and LMT Lab Day, February 23–24, Nobel Biocare introduces a newly expanded CAD/CAM offering, designed to enhance flexibility and connectivity between treatment partners. Introducing the launch of the new KaVo LS 3 desktop scanner, the events also feature the DTX Studio design software, an exciting expansion of workflow flexibility, treatment collaboration and increased business possibilities for dental laboratories.

The new offering is made possible through the close partnership with KaVo, first announced at the International Dental Show (IDS) 2017 featuring new KaVo imaging equipment and the DTX Studio software. These two leading dental innovators will continue to develop new equipment and software solutions in pursuit of digitally enabled treatment workflows that are seamless from beginning to the end for clinics and laboratories.

New desktop scanner starts the digital journey with speed, color and precision

Designed to enhance efficiency, the newly launched KaVo LS 3 desktop scanner seamlessly connects to DTX Studio design for fast restoration planning. Dental technicians can save time without compromising quality – a complete jaw scan can be performed in under 60 seconds with an accuracy of up to 4 μm (according to ISO 12836), even when working on the most complex cases. It is equipped with an optical system that captures the fine textures and colors of the dental model for true visualization, and scans can be managed directly at the scanner itself, using its intuitive 5-inch touchscreen. Work can also be simplified with the spacious, open design providing easy access to the case, as well as the ability to mount a full articulator, improving efficiency within the dental laboratory.

Truly integrated digital ecosystem connecting the dental world from beginning to end

The DTX Studio ecosystem will offer exciting new solutions in connecting the modern dental professional with the entire treatment team at each stage of dental implant treatment. It will integrate the very latest technologies and equipment from patient imaging acquisition to diagnostics, planning, implant surgery, restorations and follow-up. This includes 2D and 3D data from X-ray and optical sources, designed to manage image-based information through one single software in the practice. DTX Studio for clinics will process data in dentistry-relevant workspaces and is geared towards daily use, seamlessly working with both Windows® and macOS®. This provides users with tools for ease and efficiency; just one example being the online collaboration between NobelClinician and DTX Studio design for laboratories, whereby a TempShell provisional can be produced in-house for same-day, immediate screw-retained provisionals.

For dental laboratories, the DTX Studio ecosystem brings a new opportunity to become the ‘go-to’ lab of the future, enabling flexibility in their choice of workflow and business models. DTX Studio design software will accept intraoral scan files from systems such as TRIOS®, iTero®, 3M™ and Carestream Dental™, as well as files from other desktop scanners. Furthermore, lab owners will benefit from the best of two worlds: ‘Direct access’ to premium NobelProcera centrally manufactured products including bars, and ‘open output’ with the option to produce cement-retained restorations in-house.

Unrivaled new access to authentic restorations with precision of fit

Using the new KaVo LS 3 scanner, dental technicians can access the full portfolio of NobelProcera restorations. In combination with the DTX Studio design software, users will also benefit from smooth, fast workflows and the flexibility to produce authentic, precise-fitting NobelProcera CAD/CAM solutions by outsourcing to state-of-the-art facilities in Mahwah, New Jersey, USA, and Chiba, Japan. Manufactured in accordance with the ISO 13485 quality management system and cleared by the FDA where required, the output quality of every prosthetic is monitored. This results in products demonstrating high precision of fit, mechanical stability and years of safe and reliable performance, bringing time and cost efficiency to the dental laboratory. When assistance is needed, direct local support is available from Nobel Biocare specialists who are fully trained on the workflow.

Digital production on demand with NobelProcera® Scan and Design Services

To help laboratories consistently meet increasing demands for high-quality implant-based restorations and simultaneously avoid significant investments in equipment, not to mention time and staff training, NobelProcera Scan and Design Services can help.

Send a case from one of the 25 approved scanners, receive precision-fit bars, abutments and implant crowns, crowns and 3D printed model. Whether using an IOS or desktop scanner, the process is simple – and within a matter of days, the precisely manufactured restoration is shipped to the lab with a material authenticity certificate and a five-year product warranty.

Hans Geiselhöringer, President, Nobel Biocare said: “Bringing together connectivity and flexibility from beginning to end, this new CAD/CAM offering, featuring NobelProcera, KaVo and DTX Studio, enables numerous prosthetic restoration options allowing dental technicians to become the ‘go-to’ digital laboratory of the future. It is the ultimate CAD/CAM solution for fast and easy access to the renowned quality and precision of fit offered by NobelProcera restorations. Powerful CAD/CAM software is an inevitable step forward for the next generation, and following the digital treatment journey with DTX a single, central hub enables the speed, efficiency and streamlined workflows that are crucial in meeting and exceeding the expectations of customers and patients alike.”  

DentalEZ Integrated Solutions debuts its latest innovations today on one of the industry's biggest stages: The Chicago Dental Society's Midwinter Dental Show.

The new StarETorque advances the electric handpiece with a one-touch system that allows the practitioner to move seamlessly between high- and low-speed applications. From caries removal to root canal treatment, StarETorque covers a range of operatory needs with a lightweight tool that combines power, performance and flexibility.

The other innovative product showcased at the DentalEZ booth is the InOffice workstation developed for the dental practice. This new workstation can be customized for today's needs, with the flexibility to add new features as the needs of the practice change.

"We're excited to debut these new products at the Midwinter Show," said Bob Senesac, DentalEZ's Senior Director of Marketing. "As high-performance partners of the dental industry, we are constantly striving to develop new products that provide solutions to everyday challenges in the delivery of oral healthcare. We're focused on simplification and efficiency, value based products, and outstanding customer service and support."

Learn more at Booth 1807 or www.dentalez.com

StarETorque Electric System

The StarETorque uses a small, lightweight, brushless motor for less noise and vibration – to benefit both patient and dentist. The motor is autoclavable, with six customizable operative modes for both endodontic and preparatory procedures which provide the ultimate in flexibility.

"This compact, intuitive system gives dental professionals the freedom to work seamlessly through a variety of procedures," said Eric Reno, Senior Product Line Manager of Handpieces. "It's truly customizable, letting the user move from high-speed to low-speed settings with a simple touch."

The Motor Control Unit of the StarETorque features a bright, easy-to-read color touch screen, and a compact design for a small footprint as a standalone or detachable for modular mounting.

"We wanted to deliver a product that was intuitive, innovative, and individual," said Eric Reno.

InOffice Workstation for the Dental Practice

DentalEZ brings that same level of customization to workstations, as well.

It all starts with the basics: A frame, legs and a counter top. From there, the options to customize are endless. Add the features you need, including overhead lighting, an air gun, a handpiece and more. You also have aesthetic choices like steel color and solid surface countertops. InOffice gives dental professionals the opportunity to make flexible workstations that work best for them.

A key feature is front dust collection. The dust collection system has the highest particle capture rate compared with leading brands, based on independent testing.

"We wanted to deliver a product that would allow the dental professional the flexibility to add some features as their needs change," said Kim Pinegar, Senior Product Line Manager of Lab Workstations. "Being able to select the features you'll use day-to-day makes for a more productive, more enjoyable work environment."

Convergent Dental Inc., developers of Solea®, the industry-leading CO2 all-tissue dental laser system, unveiled the new Solea Software (SW) 3.2 update today. The 3.2 version of Solea software is the latest in a series of updates that have continually improved the performance of Solea since its launch in 2013. Consistent with previous updates, Solea SW 3.2 offers a significant increase in cutting speed, smoother surface finishes, and Solea’s industry-renowned analgesic effect. Solea SW 3.2 further simplifies the user interface with a single mode that cuts any tissue in the oral cavity – no settings required. Solea SW 3.2 is delivered via Wi-Fi, free of charge to all existing Solea users with an active service contract.

Exciting new features of Solea SW 3.2 include:

All New Cutting Algorithms: 

Everything from cutting speed to patient comfort is dictated by complex algorithms that run under Solea’s hood. Data received from existing users is leveraged to continually improve how energy is delivered providing optimal performance for the dentist and an optimal experience for the patient. Most importantly, all of this happens behind the scenes. The dentist simply aims the laser at the target tissue and uses Solea’s variable speed foot pedal to obtain the desired cut. The algorithms run behind the scenes so the dentists don’t have to manage complicated settings or become laser experts. 

A Simplified Graphical User Interface (GUI):

• Single mode for either hard or soft tissue – Dentists simply select a spot size, place Solea’s aiming beam on the target tissue, step on the variable-speed foot pedal, and go!

• Simplified Push Buttons – Easy and intuitive ON/OFF push buttons have been added, eliminating steps required before starting up Solea or shutting it down.

• Low Power Mode – Enables more control at the low end of the power range for more sensitive applications.

“This update demonstrates our continued commitment to increasing the value of Solea to our customers over time,” remarked Michael Cataldo, Convergent Dental CEO. “The better Solea performs and the easier it is to use, the more our customers can do with it. Even better, all that happens with a software update delivered via Wi-Fi on their existing hardware platform.”

According to Dr. Mark Mizner, “As the very first user, I’ve watched Solea evolve and improve over the years. After a dozen or so updates, I truly thought it couldn’t get any better. With Solea SW 3.2, the onset of analgesia was almost instantaneous. It cuts faster and even smoother than ever before. It was an amazing experience for both me and my patient; the results were absolutely beautiful. I didn’t think it was possible for Solea to be even simpler to use but Convergent did it again.”

Dental professionals are encouraged to experience how the Solea SW 3.2 can work for them by visiting Convergent Dental at the 2018 Chicago Midwinter dental meeting at Booth #4806. 

For further information about Solea, please visit www.convergentdental.com or call 844.GOSOLEA.

Axsys Dental Solutions is launching the Versamill 5X-300D with special starter packages that include all of the necessary elements to get up and running as quickly as possible. Packages start at only $27,685 and include: hyperDENT software solution, soft tooling starter package, Quatro iVac2 dust collection system, and training. 

The open-source Versamill 5X-300D can accept input from any popular dental design program and is designed for not only conventional crown and bridge work but also for fabricating more complex indications with dry millable materials. Though compact, the 5X-300D is constructed utilizing the technology found in “full-frame” CNC industrial machines, providing higher precision and more reliable long-term performance.

“The Versamill 5X-300D is a no-compromises machine that is unlike any other offering in the segment,” says Axsys President and CEO, Steve Braykovich. “The problems that typically plague the smaller bench-top machines – such as massive margin reinforcements and poor fits – become virtually nonexistent with this machine. The 5X-300D provides more technology, capability, and reliability than any other machine of its size or in its price point on the market. Additionally, most machines in this segment do not provide for quality machine service. Usually the customer must ship the machine at their own expense for service or repair. At Axsys, we pride ourselves on being the best at customer service; we offer a trouble-free service commitment and if necessary, will travel to the customer location to provide required service or maintenance.” 

Visit axsysdental.com for more information on the Versamill 5X-300D's special introductory pricing promotion.

Formlabs will showcase the Form Cell, a fully automated 3D printing platform, for the first time to the dental world, at LMT Lab Day and a range of dental workflows at Chicago Midwinter Meeting. 

Form Cell, the first commercially available automated 3D printing system, ships to initial customers in the first half of 2018. New England Orthodontic Lab and Recigno Lab have stated they will be taking advantage of automation with the Form Cell as a cost-effective way to scale up production, reduce labor costs, and enable 24/7, lights-out manufacturing. 

“Digital is my future. I'm constantly looking at what my business is going to need in the next 2-5 years and staying ahead of those trends, said Christian Saurman, New England Orthodontic Lab. “3D printing with the Form 2 and automating this process with the Form Cell is a huge part of remaining competitive as a lab."

The Form Cell builds the foundation of Formlabs' Form 2 3D printers. Formlabs Form 2 printers have a 95 percent print success rate and can be used for a wide range of dental applications, including thermoformed aligners, models, surgical guides, and splints.

"Formlabs has done an amazing job with all of the automated systems under the hood, they’ve made reliable 3D printing something that I can now take for granted,” said David Recigno, Recigno Labs. "We're already scaling up production with the Form 2, and are looking towards further streamlining production costs with the Form Cell. Recigno Labs has for over 60 years utilized advanced technology to advance the practices of dentists throughout the U.S.”

“To date, Form 2 users have completed more than 100,000 surgeries with Dental SG, made more than 20,000 splints, and printed more than 1 million 3D printed dental parts,” said Gideon Balloch, Dental Product Lead at Formlabs. “The Form 2 is powerful for dental businesses of any size, and the Form Cell is a strong next step for labs to consider as they look to scale. Our customers have seen a huge improvement in printing with Form 2 for high-quality, reliable, cost-effective, and diverse material option prints.”

NuSmileLtd., the worldwide leader in pediatric esthetic restorative dentistry, announced today the launch of its I Love My NuSmileprogram. The centerpiece of the program is the newI Love My NuSmilewebsite thatnot onlyhelps parents understand thebestrestorative dental options availablefortheir children,butalsoprovides a locator feature that makes it easy to find expert providers with nearby dental practices that offer NuSmile’s market-leading esthetic pediatric crowns.Dentists will be able to registerfor the locatorbeginning March 1, 2018. Once registered, theywill work with a NuSmile team member to personalize their contact information, uploada photo and write their own practice description. The website is expected to be announced to the public in April 2018 through several forms of digital and print media.

“Unfortunately, parents of children affected by early childhood caries are often unaware ofesthetic treatment options for their child,”said Diane Johnson Krueger, NuSmile founder and CEO. “That’s why we’ve decided to make it easier than ever for parents to learn more about esthetic restorative solutions,and to locate children’s dentists nearby who offer them.” She added, “Children whose decayed teeth are plainly visible are often subjected to teasing and even bullying, which can inflict severe emotional pain to both the child and the parents. Having to wear ‘silver’ crowns or fillings can be equally traumatic. Also, inferior quality esthetic crowns that are less durable than NuSmile ZR or Signature crowns increase the likelihood of retreatment,which no parent wants. No child or parent should have to go through that kind of embarrassment or emotional stress.”

According to Mike Loessberg, NuSmile Director of Sales, North America, the experience available to parents who visit www.ILoveMyNuSmile.comwill beunlike thatprovided on anyotherpediatric crown website. “This special website has been created expressly to help parents quickly grasp the pros and cons with photographs showing treatment outcomes of various restorative options for their child.” He added, “They’ll also learn why NuSmile’s ZR zirconia crowns and Signature pre-veneered crowns are the world’s most popular esthetic pediatric crowns, and why these crowns are consistently shown in clinical evaluations and dentist polls to be number one in durability, esthetics and fit.”

As Mr. Loessberg pointed out, “This consumer-focused approach has been incredibly successful in the orthodontic clear aligner market, and we see no reason why it won’t also be a huge success with parents who are looking to find the best restorative treatment optionsfor their child.”

Ms. Kruegerpredicted that dentists will love I Love My NuSmileas much as parents will. “We’re going to make a significant investment in advertisingthatdrawsparents tothe I Love My NuSmilewebsite, where our dentist locator will point them toward nearby dental practices that offer our state-of-the-art crowns and related products. This program is a powerful tool to helpsome of the best children’s dentists connect witheven more of the patients who really need them. We couldn’t think of a better way to honor our customers and the incredible work they are doing,” she said. For more information about this new program, please visit www.ILoveMyNuSmile.com. Formore information about NuSmile, please visit www.nusmile.com

Set to debut at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, Engle announces a new Rear Delivery as the perfect space-saving addition to the Engle Traverse Chair.  Designed with feedback gathered from dentists nationwide, Engle engineered the Rear Delivery for efficient and ergonomic two- or four-handed dentistry. The unit is available in doctor and assistant or assistant-only configurations and is the ideal complement to the Traverse Chair and the 10” of extra space it provides behind the patient.

Engle introduced its exclusive Traverse Chair in 2010, and while the chair has always enjoyed a loyal following, it has recently gained widespread popularity as operatories become smaller and dentists look to do more with less space.   The traverse function has recently been embraced by DSOs (Dental Service Organizations) who look to the Traverse Chair as a valuable space-saving tool in allowing more operatories within each location.

“With the growing popularity of the Traverse Chair, we felt that it was important to be able to offer a rear delivery system to complement the chair and as a way to further optimize operatory space,” stated Dave Maynard, Head of Product Development at Engle.  “We wanted to create a delivery system that allows dentists to take full advantage of the 10” of space behind the patient that the traverse feature provides,” Maynard continued.  The Engle unit is floor-mounted and compatible with new or existing cabinetry.  The Rear Delivery also comes with handpiece lockout on the control head as a standard feature.

Ergonomics are always paramount in Engle design, and the Rear Delivery is no exception.  The delivery system features a compact and adjustable control head and a spacious 22” adjustable-height work space.  Combined with the zero-clearance design of the all-hydraulic Traverse Chair, the pair provides for uncrowded rear operation, perfect for 12 o’clock position.  

The Engle Rear Delivery System will be available for purchase beginning in February, 2018 through Engle dealers and distributors.  

Further expanding its portfolio of products, Axsys Dental Solutions, a leading supplier of digital dental manufacturing solutions, has introduced the benchtop, industrial-quality Versamill 5X-300D. The machine utilizes the capabilities of the tried-and-true Versamill family to provide a compact 5-axis machining center that ensures maximum flexibility and versatility. The open-source Versamill 5X-300D can accept input from any popular dental design program and masters not only conventional crown and bridge work but is also designed for fabricating more complex indications with dry millable materials. Though extremely compact, the 5X-300D is constructed utilizing the technology found in “full-frame” CNC industrial machines, providing higher precision and more reliable performance for the long term. The machine includes quality Versamill features that enable dentists and dental labs to quickly manufacture restorations with thin, clean margins -- with the minimum of profit-robbing, error-prone post machining hand work. Most restorations require as little as 40μm margin reinforcement.

• 90kg weight

• Vibration-absorbing aluminum frame construction

• Fully-supported 10mm ballscrews

• Closed-loop axes drive system

• Linear guideways

• 60,000 rpm, 500-watt spindle

• Built-in high-speed machine control

• Ideal for the production of bridges, copings, inlays, onlays, crowns, models and more.

• Trouble-free Service Commitment: Service performed without return to service center

“The Versamill 5X-300D is a no-compromises machine that is unlike any other offering in the segment,” says Axsys President and CEO, Steve Braykovich. “The problems that typically plague the smaller bench-top machines – such as massive margin reinforcements and poor fits – become virtually nonexistent with this machine. The 5X-300D provides more technology, capability and reliability than any other machine of its size or in its price point on the market. Additionally, most machines in this segment do not provide for quality machine service. Usually the customer must ship the machine at their own expense for service or repair. At Axsys, we pride ourselves on being the best at customer service; we offer a trouble-free service commitment and if necessary, will travel to the customer location to provide required service or maintenance.”

Axsys Dental Solutions is launching the new machine with a special starter packages that includes all of the necessary elements to get up and running as quickly as possible. Packages start at only $27,685 and include: hyperDENT software solution, soft tooling starter package, Quatro iVac2 dust collection system, and training.

Visit axsysdental.com for more information on the Versamill 5X-300D or its special introductory pricing promotion.