Open Wide(r): A Guide to Smile and Facial Aesthetics to Enhance Your Confidence, Appearance, and Overall Health and to educate and inspire young dentists to Be the Best That They Can Be. 

Dr. Larry wrote the book OPEN WIDE(R) with a purpose to inform the Public about the possibilities and approaches they can take enhance their self-image, to improve their general health, to enhance their beauty, increase their confidence, and most importantly, to enrich the fulfillment they derive from life itself. 

"OPEN WIDE(R) is a book about optimism and tremendous drive To Be The Best They Can Be. "Stated Dr. Rosenthal”. This is a book about the possibilities. It is a book of optimism, and passion. It is a renaissance, a revival of the art and beauty in the practice of dentistry. And it is a renaissance accessible to all – to dentists and their patients alike. It puts health and beauty within everyone's reach". 

This book is for both patients and dentists. It demonstrates the essential role that dentistry plays synergistically, in both the health and beauty of the head and neck. The inter change between the patient and the dentist is easily demonstrated via the multitude of before and after photos and therefore, it would be extremely beneficial in any Aesthetic or Restorative consultation. 

To celebrate the release of OPEN WIDE(R), Dr. Larry will be providing copies of his book OPEN WIDE ( R ) to all U.S. dental school libraries. Proceeds from book purchases of OPEN WIDE(R) available at (www.amazon.com), (www.Barnes and Nobel), or (www.openwider.com) helps provide this resource to all dental students, new doctors, and dental professionals and they will learn how to enhance a smile, boost a patients self-confidence, and expand the opportunities in their lives. 

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal, his courses or his book please visit www.aestheticadvantage.com

In a just-published study, the 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner has been named the best of the seven intraoral scanners and one conventional impression evaluated for delivering finish line (margin line) distinctness and finish line accuracy.

The study, "Finish line distinctness and accuracy in 7 intraoral scanners versus conventional impression: an in vitro descriptive comparison," compared results from seven leading intraoral scanners and one conventional impression. Finish line distinctness was defined in the study as the degree of visual clarity and identifiability in the reproduction of the finish line compared to a reference scan. Finish line accuracy was defined as the ability of a measurement to match the actual value of a reference scan in the immediate proximity to the finish line.

TRIOS was found to show the highest finish line distinctness in both the rendering and mesh view. In addition, TRIOS had the highest overall accuracy based on color deviation evaluation and distribution of deviations in histogram of the scanners and conventional impression tested.

The study concluded that 3Shape TRIOS and some of the other tested intraoral scanner systems can provide finish line distinctness and finish line accuracy higher than a conventional impression in vitro. The study noted a difference between scanners and impressions regarding finish line distinctness and finish line accuracy. 3Shape TRIOS performed better than the conventional impression, as well as producing the best results overall for the digital impression systems tested.

“It’s imperative that for creating a great fitting restoration, the margin line must be accurate and well-defined. The study demonstrates that 3Shape TRIOS not only brings accuracy to your digital workflow, but that its accuracy surpasses conventional impressions as well. Couple TRIOS-accuracy with our continually-growing ecosystem of integrated treatment options and materials, and we truly believe that our open and superior solutions give doctors a real advantage in providing the best care for their patients,” says 3Shape Founder and Co-CEO, Tais Clausen.

An industrial ATOS scanner was used as a reference scanner in the study. With a resolution of 50,000 triangles, the ATOS was followed by 3Shape TRIOS in terms of resolution with 23,500 triangles. The triangle count in 3Shape TRIOS was found to be 1.6–3.1 times higher than the other investigated intraoral scanning systems and 1.3 times higher than the laboratory scanner used on the conventional impression.

The study additionally found that color output may enhance the identification of the finish line due to contrasting colors but was dependent on a scanner’s underlying technology. 3Shape TRIOS was the only digital impression solution in the study to feature true color imaging. The other systems used either non-true color or monochrome imaging.

View the published study: https://bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12903-018-0489-3

Today, Dentsply Sirona announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire OraMetrix, a leading industry provider of innovative 3-D technology solutions improving the quality and efficiency of orthodontic care. OraMetrix offers an advanced, CAD platform developed for dental professionals to deliver consistently predictable orthodontic outcomes. The acquisition, in combination with GAC’s bracket expertise and Dentsply Sirona’s digital technologies, will enable Dentsply Sirona to provide a comprehensive orthodontic offering that will include a full arch clear aligner solution.

Brad Clatt, Group Vice President, Dentsply Sirona Orthodontics commented: “Dentsply Sirona’s mission is to empower dental professionals to provide better, safer, faster dental care. OraMetrix has spent over a decade committed to that same clinical approach. This acquisition brings an advanced digital diagnostic and treatment planning system, that will provide clinicians the flexibility, speed, and control they need to treat their patients with multiple modalities on a single platform. We believe this platform positions us very well for the future as an end-to-end total orthodontic solution provider.”

Among its innovative products and services, OraMetrix offers a powerful, software platform that integrates multiple diagnostic media, including CBCT, Cephalometric, Panoramic, Optical, and Facial data. Following the acquisition, Dentsply Sirona will be able to provide an end-to-end digital workflow with a comprehensive range of devices to enable dental professionals to match their patient’s growing demands for aesthetics and speed of treatment.

OraMetrix will be a complementary part of Dentsply Sirona’s orthodontics business unit and strengthens Dentsply Sirona’s overall portfolio offering as The Dental Solutions Company™.

About OraMetrix

OraMetrix is the leading industry provider of innovative 3-D technology solutions improving the quality and efficiency of orthodontic care. Its proprietary technology, the SureSmile system, represents a significant leap forward in orthodontics. SureSmile allows the use of precision digital tools throughout all phases of the orthodontic treatment process – diagnosis, treatment planning and monitoring, and arch-wire customization. For doctors, SureSmile offers more precision, efficiency and control, while patients experience shorter treatment times, less overall discomfort and fewer office visits. The result is an orthodontic treatment system that delivers unparalleled results for patients and doctors alike. OraMetrix, founded in 1998, has approximately 130 employees in the United States, Germany, and Australia.

ABOUT DENTSPLY SIRONA

Dentsply Sirona is the world’s largest manufacturer of professional dental products and technologies, with a 130-year history of innovation and service to the dental industry and patients worldwide. Dentsply Sirona develops, manufactures, and markets a comprehensive solutions offering including dental and oral health products as well as other consumable medical devices under a strong portfolio of world class brands. As The Dental Solutions Company, Dentsply Sirona’s products provide innovative, high-quality and effective solutions to advance patient care and deliver better, safer and faster dentistry. Dentsply Sirona’s global headquarters is located in York, Pennsylvania, and the international headquarters is based in Salzburg, Austria. The company’s shares are listed in the United States on NASDAQ under the symbol XRAY. Visit www.dentsplysirona.com for more information about Dentsply Sirona and its products.  

The American Dental Association (ADA) announced a new policy on opioids supporting mandates on prescription limits and continuing education.

According to the ADA press release, the policy states:

- The ADA supports mandatory continuing education in prescribing opioids and other controlled substances.

- The ADA supports statutory limits on opioid dosage and duration of no more than seven days for the treatment of acute pain, consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention evidence-based guidelines.

- The ADA supports dentists registering with and utilizing Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) to promote the appropriate use of opioids and deter misuse and abuse.

New data published in the April issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) continue to shed light on opioid prescriptions from a dental perspective:

- Benefits and Harms Associated with Analgesic Medications Used in the Management of Acute Dental Pain: Authors examined five systematic reviews and concluded non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are equal or superior to using opioids for dental pain.

- Opioid Prescribing Practices from 2010 through 2015 Among Dentists in the United States: Authors from the ADA Health Policy Institute used data in several existing databases to review opioid prescription claims from 2010 to 2015 for about 1.1 million privately insured dental patients.

- Gender and Race/Ethnic Disparities in Opioid Prescriptions for Dental Diagnoses among Patients with Medicaid: Authors reviewed claims of more than 890,000 Medicaid patients from 13 states between 2013 and 2015.

Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry has been examining this issue in-depth and has an expansive online clinical library on the management of opioids from practicing experts:

CE: Opioid Prescribing in Dentistry: Keys for Safe and Proper Usage

Raymond Dionne, DDS, PhD; and Paul Moore, DMD, PhD, MPH

Roundtable: When are Opioids Indicated for Postoperative Analgesia in Dental Practice?

Raymond A. Dionne, DDS, PhD; Gary Warburton, DDS, MD; and Asma Khan, BDS, PhD

CE: Prescribing Opioid Analgesics for Acute Dental Pain: Time to Change Clinical Practices in Response to Evidence and Misperceptions

Raymond A. Dionne, DDS, PhD; Sharon M. Gordon, DDS, MPH; and Paul A. Moore, DMD, PhD, MPH

Clinicians worldwide have looked to Parkell when in need of a reliable, effective bonding system for direct and indirect restorations, cementation and desensitization. The company has had decades of success with products such as Touch and Bond^™, Brush&Bond^® and most recently, Brush&Bond^® Universal.

Parkell’s new Universal Adhesive is a multi-mode adhesive formulated with a unique blend of 4-META and MDP technologies. This proprietary formulation provides:

• Reliable micro-mechanical and chemical adhesion to dentin and enamel regardless of the etching technique.

• High bond strength with a variety of substrates-including metals, composites and ceramics.

• Desensitization of dentin due to excellent penetration of the resin into the tubules.

• Compatible with light-cured, self-cured and dual-cured resins.

• A low film thickness of 3 microns (particularly important when cementing crowns, bridges or other indirect restorations).

Parkell’s Universal Adhesive is the right choice for clinicians who want to simplify their technique and optimize results.

For more information or to order Parkell’s Universal Adhesive, visit www.parkell.com

Isolite Systems, the industry leader in dental isolation technology, announced today that it is changing its corporate name to Zyris, Inc. The name change reflects the company's broader commitment to elevate the dental experience for both patients and clinicians.

"We believe that excellent dental care has far-reaching health effects. Therefore, our work goes beyond light and isolation. The new name - Zyris - is a better representation for the future vision of our organization," said Sandi Hirsch, CEO and Co-Founder of Zyris. "Our goal is to help transform the dental experience and make it a positive one for both patients and clinicians."

"The name Zyris was inspired by the two major muscles that help form a smile: the Zygomaticus Major and the Risorius," said Jim Hirsch, Co-Founder of Zyris.

"We want to be the extra muscle that helps patients enjoy better oral health, while supporting clinicians like me to deliver more positive dental experiences," said Dr. Tom Hirsch, DDS, Co-Founder of Zyris.

Zyris, Inc. produces, sells and supports a range of dental isolation systems, including the newly announced Isolite 3, the Isodry and the Isovac. All three systems work with the patented mouthpieces that integrate a dual-channel suction, protection for the cheek, tongue and airway and an integrated bite-block for patient safety and comfort.

ABOUT ZYRIS, INC.

Zyris was founded in 2001 by Thomas R. Hirsch, DDS, his brother James Hirsch, an industrial designer, and Sandra Hirsch, CPA. The company was founded to create positive dental experiences for both patients and clinicians Dentists, dental assistants and hygienists at dental practices and clinics throughout North America, Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia are making their practices more productive using Zyris products while improving patient comfort and safety. Zyris' dental isolation family of products are used in millions of procedures each year by leading dental practices, schools, the military and public health facilities.

The company has received significant industry recognition for its contribution to the advancement of dentistry, including being named one of ‟The 50 Greatest Game-Changers in Dentistry," winning 13 consecutive DentalTown magazine ‟Townie Choice Awards," and a 2013 recipient of the Pride Institute Award. To learn more about the Isolite, Isodry and Isovac dental isolation products call 800-560-6066 or visit https://www.zyris.com.

 The growing success of dental implants provides an alternative to traditional dentures. Implant-supported fixed complete dental prostheses (IFCDPs) are changing modern dentistry and allowing for a new, innovative way to treat endentulism (toothlessness). As more dental providers move toward IFCDPs, data on both patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes are necessary.

Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a private practice in Dallas, Texas, recently performed a retrospective study published in the Journal of Oral Implantology that focused on patients’ oral health, quality of life and IFCDP complications. 37 patients with 49 prostheses participated in this study by completing a written questionnaire, attending an in-person interview and having an oral exam of their IFCDPs.

The synthetic materials contained in the IFCDPs included 22 metal-acrylic (MA), 14 retrievable crown (RC), seven monolithic zirconia (MZ) and six porcelain-veneered zirconia (PVZ). The most common complications found for each compound were: MA had posterior tooth wear; RC contained fractures and chipping; MZ contained wear of opposing restorations (wear on natural teeth); and PVZ had chipping of opposing restorations. The researchers deemed six prostheses as failures, mainly due to fracturing and chipping. This included two MA, two PVZ and two RC.

When reviewing patient questionnaires and interviews, the researchers found that the overall level of satisfaction patients had with their prostheses was high. 87% of patients were very to extremely satisfied, and 89% felt their IFCDPs “looked great.” However, the PVZ prostheses were shown to have the most negative effect on patients, while the MZ had the least. The chief complaint was functional limitation with regard to chewing, differences in speech patterns and hygiene. The researchers noted, “This leading-edge study helps clinicians recognize common problems with full arch dental implant supported prostheses, so that they can provide predictable results for patients…It is clear that patient satisfaction was closely related to patient expectations and patient education. By selecting the prosthesis that best suits each patient, and by sharing with patients the types of problems they might have, fewer complications and greater patient satisfaction with care is possible.”

This research is limited in its scope of observed complications as well as the size of the study group. The researchers are viewing it as a preliminary study and verification of outcomes needs to be conducted with a larger sample size and more real-time data, versus a retrospective analysis.

Full text of the article, “Patient-Reported and Clinical Outcomes of Implant-Supported Fixed Complete Dental Prostheses: A Comparison of Metal-Acrylic, Milled Zirconia, and Retrievable Crown Prostheses,” Journal of Oral Implantology, Vol. 44, No. 1, 2018, is available at: https://joionline.org/doi/full/10.1563/aaid-joi-D-17-00184.

Dallas-based marketing software developer, DoctorLogic, was recently chosen by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) to become the first digital marketing firm to serve as an official member benefit partner to its growing organization. As the world's largest non-profit member organization dedicated to advancing excellence in comprehensive oral care, the AACD supports more than 5,000 dental professionals from 70 countries.

DoctorLogic's Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Andre Riley, says, "This is a unique segment that continues to grow at exponential speed."

Cosmetic dentistry blends technology, practitioner skill, and an artistic eye to provide individuals the beautiful smile they've always wanted through life-changing procedures. The AACD is the known authority among dental professionals in this area. "Our focus is to offer superior opportunities to our members, so we are proud to partner with DoctorLogic and provide a platform where they can maximize their online exposure," says Danielle St. Louis, Manager of Marketing and Communications for the AACD.

A strong online presence can greatly impact a dental practice and influence patient behavior. Riley says, "Our proven strategy of creating modern websites, packed with value-added SEO features, significantly helps practices display the spectrum of services they offer, thus improving brand visibility. This translates to more patients."

Riley continues, "Our websites include a robust, search-friendly architecture that contains compelling content and a powerful before-and-after smile gallery and patient review tool. These features allow practices to showcase their work while helping patients make an informed decision. The AACD shares our philosophy, and we are excited to offer our services at a special member rate."

St. Louis concludes, "DoctorLogic will be at the upcoming AACD Scientific Session in April, where they will demonstrate their products and services. We believe our members will see why so many dental professionals use DoctorLogic to grow their practices."

For more information visit https://doctorlogic.com/partnerships/aacd/

Oral Health America (OHA) announced that its 28th Annual Gala & Benefit raised more than $500,000 for OHA's programs and campaigns that support oral health for all Americans. OHA hosted over 700 people at the new Marriott Marquis Chicago on February 21, 2018. Guests from the dental industry enjoyed dinner, dancing and networking, helping to raise critically needed funds to support programming.

“Our Annual Gala & Benefit helps shine light on the work OHA does for Americans across the lifespan. This year’s theme, Emergence & Empowerment, speaks to OHA’s ability to connect communities with resources to foster self-empowerment through education and gaining access to care,” stated Beth Truett, President and CEO for Oral Health America. “The funds raised will allow OHA to continue its mission and work toward the goal that oral health is a right, not a privilege.”

The Annual Gala & Benefit provides crucial and principal support for OHA’s oral health programs serving children, families and older adults nationwide; enables OHA to offer pre-dental internships and oral health fellowships; and fuels our advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations of all ages.

During the event, OHA recognized Dr. Jack Dillenberg for his dedication to the dental industry. As founding Dean at the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ASDOH), Dr. Dillenberg laid the groundwork for professional community externships, helping to serve those most vulnerable. Dr. Dillenberg was introduced by his colleague and friend, Dr. Robert Trombly, current Dean of ASDOH, and presented the Gala Tribute Award by George Tysowsky, OHA Board Chair. A tribute booklet given to Gala attendees included heartfelt congratulations from many of his friends.

DentaQuest was also recognized for $1,000,000 in lifetime giving to Oral Health America. The Million Dollar Donor Award was presented to Steven Pollock, CEO of DentaQuest, by OHA’s President and CEO, Beth Truett. OHA also presented a Program Champion Award to Marshall University/West Virginia Oral Health Coalition for their service to low-income children in West Virginia and sponsorship of Continuing Education Credits for OHA’s Webinar Series. The DuPage (IL) County Health Department also received a Program Champion Award for educating and screening older adults in the Chicagoland area, sponsored by Colgate and presented by Dr. Barbara Shearer, Director of Scientific Affairs.

The 28th Annual Gala & Benefit was generously supported by: Cocktail Reception Sponsor - Ivoclar Vivadent; Technology Sponsor - Patterson Dental; Entertainment Sponsor - Henry Schein Dental; Platinum Sponsors - Colgate Palmolive Company, Dentsply Sirona, Philips Oral Healthcare, Septodont; Bid Card Sponsor - SciCan; Grand Raffle Sponsor - Darby Dental Supply; Dessert Sponsor - Midmark Corporation; Diamond Sponsors - Chicago Dental Society, DentaQuest, Jayne Agency; Wine Sponsor - DentalEZ Integrated Solutions; and Gold Sponsors - BISCO, INC., Burkhart Dental Supply, PLANMECA, Whip Mix Corporation.  

On the occasion of World Oral Health Day, FDI World Dental Federation asked parents around the world how they cared for their children's oral health growing up and the responses suggest room for improvement. Maintaining a healthy mouth is crucial to keeping it functioning correctly and for maintaining general health and well-being.

A survey carried out in 10 countries found that only 13% of parents with children aged 18 and under took their child to the dentist before their first birthday - the recommended age for a first dental visit. Most parents first took their child to the dentist when they were between one and three years old (24%) or between four and six years old (22%), while 20% of parents reported never having taken their child for a dental check-up.

"It's worrying to learn that most children are not getting a dental check-up at the recommended age," said Dr Kathryn Kell, FDI President. "Good oral health habits start early. Parents should visit the dentist after their child's first tooth starts erupting as a preventive measure to avoid risk of developing early childhood caries. Oral diseases can impact every aspect of life and are associated with many general health conditions. This World Oral Health Day, we want people to make the connection between their oral health and general health and understand the impact that one has on the other. Knowing how to protect your mouth and body at all ages contributes to a better quality of life."

Half (50%) of the parents who had taken their child to the dentist identified the reason as being a regular dental check-up. However, while this was the most frequent answer in the United Kingdom (82%), Sweden (77%), Argentina (65%), France (63%), the United States (63%), Australia (56%), and China (34%); the most reported response for going to the dentist in Egypt, the Philippines, and Morocco was pain or discomfort in their child's mouth (56%, 43% and 38% respectively).

More than two-fifths (43%) of parents with children aged 18 and under said that they personally ensured their child's teeth were brushed before bed time to avoid oral diseases - a key message promoted by FDI. The survey also showed that 40% of parents supervised their child's toothbrushing twice a day, and 38% of them said they limited sugary foods and drinks in their child's diet to avoid oral diseases. Only 26% reported to have personally cleaned their child's teeth from as soon as the first tooth pushed out, and merely 8% mentioned having encouraged their child to wearing a mouthguard when playing sports.

FDI recommends practicing good oral care, avoiding risk factors such as an unhealthy diet - particularly one high in sugar, and having regular dental check-ups to protect oral health and general health at all ages. Parents should start cleaning their child's teeth before bed time when the first tooth starts pushing through, supervise children's toothbrushing twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, and schedule regular dental check-ups starting no later than the first birthday.

About World Oral Health Day

Celebrated annually on 20 March, World Oral Health Day (WOHD) was launched by FDI World Dental Federation to raise global awareness on the prevention and control of oral diseases. https://www.worldoralhealthday.org; #WOHD18 #SayAhh

WOHD Global Partners: Henry Schein, Philips Sonicare, Unilever; and WOHD Supporters: Planmeca, Wrigley

About the Survey 

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 11,552 adults, of which 4,056 were parents with children aged 18 and under. Fieldwork was undertaken between 30 January - 8 February 2018. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are nationally representative of all adults aged 18+. The breakdown of those that were parents with children aged 18 and under were as follows: UK (468), Australia (311), Egypt (463), Philippines (506), France (357), USA (295), Morocco (386), Sweden (272), China (529), and Argentina (469).