The eighth annual volunteer event brought together 26 local dental practices and served more than 375 patients at no cost on Sunday, May 21.

Benevis is proud to share that 26 of its supported practices across 11 states provided free dental care to over 375 children and adults during its eighth annual Sharing Smiles Day. The event featured 315 volunteers including clinicians, hygienists, and dental practice support staff and executives that dedicated their time to serving uninsured or underserved children and their families.

“This annual event has become a highlight of the year for me and many others in the Benevis community as it embodies the mission of our organization to improve access to essential dental care in underserved communities,” said Bryan Carey, CEO of Benevis. “We are thankful for our doctors and staff who volunteered their time and gave back to our communities through this day, but who also serve them throughout the year by creating dental homes for families whose insurance can make it difficult to find care.”

Across the 26 practices, 35 doctors and 280 staff participated in Sharing Smiles Day this year. Treatments were provided at no cost and included dental exams and cleanings, emergency care, extractions, and restorative care. Over the previous seven years, Sharing Smiles Day has provided dental relief that impacted more than 2,500 patients across 13 states and the District of Columbia to help combat lack of dependable oral health care in children and educate families on healthy dental habits.

“The event is another way for Benevis to reach children and families in disadvantaged communities that are often overlooked by general dentists,” said Dr. Dale Mayfield, DMD, chief dental officer of Benevis. “Oral health is healthcare too. It is imperative that we do our part to close dental health disparity gaps, and Sharing Smiles Day is just one of the many ways we support that effort.”

Since 2002, Benevis has treated almost five million patients in underserved communities, including 82% who are enrolled in Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). To deliver on its mission, Benevis supports a network of like-minded, community-focused dentists that prioritize patient health to make a national impact. In addition to providing compassionate care, clinical teams prioritize educating children and families about daily brushing, flossing, and the importance of good nutrition for a healthy smile and improved oral health.

To learn more about Sharing Smiles Day, visit sharingsmilesday.com.

PDS-supported dentist's leadership recognized for advancing dental care in New Mexico

Pacific Dental Services® (PDS), one of the nation’s leading dental support organizations (DSOs), commends Kelley Ryals, DDS for her year of service as the president of the New Mexico Dental Association (NMDA). As a PDS-supported dentist and practice owner, Dr. Ryals' leadership of the NMDA over the last year is a testament to the strong partnership between PDS and exceptional dental professionals. Notably, Dr. Ryals was the second supported dentist in PDS history to hold the prestigious seat of the state dental authority president.

“I am honored to have been selected by my peers to serve as President of the New Mexico Dental Association,” stated Dr. Ryals. “I’m pleased to have been able to contribute to the advancement of dental care in our state, and proud to have provided leadership over the last year to ensure the highest standards of oral health for all New Mexicans.”

Dr. Ryals served as president of the 600-member NMDA from May 2022 through May 2023. Her term was highlighted by many accomplishments, including the passage of a comprehensive insurance reform bill in the New Mexico legislature. Additionally, she was a strong advocate for the understanding and acceptance of DSO-supported dentists, a champion of dentist wellness, fought for improved dental coverage under Medicaid, and played an inspiring role for women’s leadership in dentistry.

“Dr. Ryals' term as president of the New Mexico Dental Association is a testament to her exceptional expertise, unwavering commitment to oral health, and exceptional leadership abilities,” said NMDA Executive Director Dr. Tom Schripsema. “Over the last year she has played a pivotal role in the ongoing advancement and excellence of dental care in the state.”

A native of Santa Fe, Dr. Ryals graduated cum laude from The University of New Mexico with a Bachelor of Science degree before earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Returning to her hometown, she joined Pacific Dental Services and opened Santa Fe Modern Dentistry in 2011, which has become a thriving practice that has had a profound impact on the local community under her leadership. Dr. Ryals' close partnership with Pacific Dental Services has resulted in the successful opening of multiple dental offices in the area, expanding access to high-quality oral healthcare for countless individuals.

Dr. Ryals' dedication to the field extends far beyond her practice. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the New Mexico National Guard, she serves her country by ensuring the oral health of service members. She participates in the Board of Alpha Dental of New Mexico and the Quality Assurance Committee for Delta Dental. Her tireless dedication to accessible dental care led her to volunteer as event chairperson for the upcoming 2024 Mission of Mercy clinic in Santa Fe, providing much-needed dental services to underserved populations.  

Pictured above: Dr. Kelley Ryals (center) celebrates her service as President of the New Mexico Dental Association, accompanied by Pacific Dental Services regional manager Cynthia Grado (left) and regional partner Stephanie Wootan (right).

The Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD), an international, professional membership association, recently installed James Carreiro, DMD as its president. The announcement was made during the ALD’s recent 30th Anniversary Meeting in Dallas.

Dr. Carreiro is a general dentist with a private practice in Largo, Florida who has been utilizing laser technology since 2007. He incorporates laser technology, including photobiomodulation in almost every aspect of patient care. Dr. Carreiro is a graduate of Fordham University and earned his dental degree from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. In addition, he holds Mastership Certification and Advanced Proficiency Certification from the Academy of Laser Dentistry and is a member of the Academy’s Speakers Bureau. In addition, Dr. Carreiro has also earned Fellowship Certification with the World Clinical Laser Institute.

“My number one goal as ALD president is to encourage and support new Academy initiatives to increase awareness of the many benefits of laser and light therapy for patients and practitioners alike,” said Dr. Carriero. “This includes being a strong dental industry advocate for laser education, certification and safety.”

Other recently installed ALD officers include the following leaders in laser dentistry:

President-Elect and 2024 Conference Chair | Walid Altayeb, DDS | Private Practice, Dohar, Qatar Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Dr. Altayeb received his dental degree from the Faculty of Dentistry, Damascus University, in 1998 and completed his Master of Science degree in Periodontics in 2004 and Doctor of Philosophy in Periodontics in 2007. Dr. Altayeb has achieved Advanced Proficiency certificates from the Academy of Laser Dentistry in 980-nm diode and Er:YAG lasers. He also has Mastership in the Academy of Laser Dentistry and is also Chair of the ALD Gulf Laser Chapter. He works in private practice as a periodontist and implantologist in the Tamim Dental Polyclinic, Doha, Qatar, The British Lasik and Cosmetic Surgery Center, Dubai, UAE, and the Masters Dental and Aesthetic Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Treasurer |Grace Sun, DDS | Private Practice, Los Angeles, California

Dr. Sun graduated from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in 1981 and operates a full-time comprehensive cosmetic practice and dental laboratory in the Beverly Hills, California, area. She was the first female Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and served on the AACD Professional Education Committee for two terms. Dr. Sun is also a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, a Master and Educator with the Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD) and an international lecturer for dental laser and PBM education. She is also a senior instructor with the International Association for Orthodontics (IAO) and holds Mastership status with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI). In January 2022, Dr. Sun received Dental Acupuncturist Certification with an emphasis on orofacial pain management from the UCLA Center for East-West Integrative Medicine. Dr. Sun utilizes multiple wavelengths of dental lasers, including photobiomodulation, acupuncture and photoacupuncture in various treatment procedures.

Secretary | Shigeyuki Nagai, DDS, PhD | Private Practice, Tokyo Japan

Dr. Nagai received his DDS from Osaka Dental University, Japan in 1987 and studied at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine as a Clinical Fellow from1989-1992. He practiced at the Massachusetts Veterans Administration Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital in 1991. He received his PhD from Tokyo Medical and Dental University. Dr. Nagai serves as a Board member of the Japanese Society for Laser Dentistry, Asia and Pacific Division of the World Federation for Laser Dentistry and Vice President of the Japanese Academy of Color for Dentistry. He served as the board member of Academy of Laser Dentistry from 2010-2018. Dr. Nagai is a committee member of the Japan Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, Japan Society for Laser Surgery and Medicine and Japan Association of Microscopic Dentistry. He is responsible for translating ALD’s certification examinations in Japanese and maintains a full-time private dental practice in Tokyo, Japan. Dr. Nagai is also a visiting lecturer at Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Department of Periodontology.

Immediate Past President | Samuel B. Low, DDS, MS, MEd | Private Practice, Palm Coast, Florida

Dr. Low is Professor Emeritus, University of Florida, College of Dentistry, and an Advisor Member of the Pankey Institute. He is a past president of the American Academy of Periodontology and is a current officer of the Academy of Laser Dentistry as Immediate Past President. Dr. Low provides periodontists, dentists, and dental hygienists with the tools for successfully managing the periodontal patient. He was selected “Dentist of the Year” by the Florida Dental Association, Distinguished Alumnus by the University of Texas Dental School, and recipient of the Gordon Christensen Lecturer Recognition Award.

He is a Past President of the Florida Dental Association and past American Dental Association (ADA) Trustee.

Executive Director | Gail Siminovsky, CAE | Coral Springs, Florida

Ms. Siminovsky is a leadership professional and has served as executive director of the Academy of Laser Dentistry since 1999 and serves the ALD Board as an advisor. Gail is the 2019 Florida Society of Association Executive of the Year. She earned and maintains the credential Certified Association Executive (CAE) from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and served on ASAE’s Small Staff Advisory Committee. Gail is an active member of FSAE after serving as Chairwoman of the Board in 2021-22 and is a member of the American Dental Association’s Committee on Dental Meetings and National Coalition of General Dental Organizations (NCGDO). Gail raises awareness of the role of lasers as beneficial tools that dentists and hygienists have for treating dental disease. She speaks on governance and board leadership, building strategic alliances, and the importance of associations being trusted knowledge brokers.

● Features FDA 510(k) cleared High Impact Denture Base resin, the first ceramic-infused 3D printing material for denture bases, and certified biocompatible High Impact Denture Teeth resin

● Leverages proprietary, future-forward NanoFusion™ technology that suspends the optimal amount of ceramic, with minimal mixing, for superb denture strength and fracture resistance

● Introduces new, simplified treatment planning with SprintRay Cloud Design, making it easy for dental professionals to delegate the computer-aided design (CAD) workflow

SprintRay Inc., a global leader in digital dentistry and 3D printing solutions, today announced that it has received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance for High Impact Denture Base, the first ceramic infused denture material for 3D fabrication and repair of full and partial removable dentures and baseplates. Designed to be used with High Impact Denture Teeth, these high-performance denture resins shift the paradigm of digital dentistry with advancements in ceramic-infused 3D printing materials that deliver strong mechanical properties. Using High Impact Denture resins, the SprintRay workflow provides a seamless, in-office fabrication process for removable dentures.

The global demand for dentures is increasing, and it is predicted to reach $3.1 billion by 2032.¹ In the United States, approximately 40 million adults are edentulous, meaning they are missing all of their teeth, and six million adults receive new dentures annually.² Traditionally, dentures are produced using analog impressions sent to a lab, requiring anywhere from 4 to 6 patient visits and up to 3 to 4 weeks in wait time. The emergence of digitally produced dentures has enabled the speed and convenience of in-office production, but the limitations of first-generation 3D resins in performance, strength, and durability have slowed adoption. Now, SprintRay offers a complete digital solution combined with High Performance resins to deliver strength and durability with speed.

"SprintRay was founded on the promise of developing carefully curated 3D printing solutions with market-leading performance, and our high impact denture ecosystem is a key example of this commitment," said SprintRay CEO and Co-Founder Amir Mansouri, Ph.D. "We wanted to ensure that, unlike with first-generation 3D printed or legacy milled denture solutions, dental professionals won't have to compromise on strength, longevity, or durability for in-office speed and efficiency. We sought to develop a solution that delivered on all fronts."

Proprietary NanoFusion Delivers High Performance

SprintRay High Impact Base is the first ceramic-infused 3D printing material for dentures, answering the need in the market for a strong and durable denture material. High Impact Base and Teeth resins are uniquely formulated with NanoFusion™, SprintRay's proprietary approach to dental chemistry. Materials developed with NanoFusion™ have a novel ceramic composition and form dense polymer chains to deliver dental prostheses with better strength, longevity, and durability compared to competitor materials. NanoFusion™ enables High Impact Denture Base and High Impact Denture Teeth to be infused with the optimal amount of ceramic to excel in fracture resistance and wear resistance, outperforming 3D printing and milled competitor materials on multiple measures.

On-Demand, Customized Denture Design Services

The SprintRay digital denture workflow was designed to solve critical issues commonly faced with 3D printing and provide a complete end-to-end scan-to-print solution that includes design. In partnership with leading dental scanner manufacturers, patient data scans are easily transferred to SprintRay Cloud Design. This cloud-based platform provides high-quality, expert design services. Once design requests are submitted, the design turnaround is 48-72 hours, drastically reducing time compared to traditional denture workflows.

With the High Impact resin launch, SprintRay now provides on-demand custom denture design services for as little as $75/arch, eliminating the need for dental computer-aided design (CAD) software. Cloud Design will offer 3 options for aesthetics for full arch complete denture designs, providing dentists with customized choices to meet each patient's unique aesthetic and financial needs.

A Fully Integrated Ecosystem

High Impact Denture resins are fully integrated with the SprintRay industry-leading 3D printing ecosystem, including the Pro S 3D printer and advanced ProCure 2 and Pro Wash/Dry systems, enabling dentists to print a full denture in <2 hours. Furthermore, this seamless workflow for producing removable dentures delivers optimal results for patients in as little as 2 visits.

"The new SprintRay High Impact Denture Base and Teeth are a huge leap forward in the strength, durability, and longevity of the denture solution I can provide my patients," said Dr. Andrew Johnson. "With High Impact Denture Base and teeth resin in my practice, I now have the combined value of high impact materials without the challenge of curing and post processing two separate, independent materials. I can produce durable, long-lasting, and beautiful dentures in much less time than traditional methods."

SprintRay will present details of this new workflow and material ecosystem at the California Dental Association (CDA) Presents the Art and Science of Dentistry from May 18-20, 2023 in Anaheim, CA. 

1. Transparency Market Research, 2023

2. American College of Prosthodontics, 2022

The Penn Dental Medicine Center for Integrative Global Oral Health (CIGOH) has launched "Statistics with Crayons", a new animated video and podcast series aimed at making complex statistical concepts accessible to the general public. The series is produced by the Penn Dental Medicine Center for Educational Technology & Innovation (CETI).

Led by Drs. Michael Glick and Alonso Carrasco-Labra and Olivia Urquhart, "Statistics with Crayons" explores statistical concepts one at a time in animated videos and accompanying podcast episodes.

"The goal of 'Statistics with Crayons' is to make statistical concepts easy to understand and accessible to everyone," said Dr. Michael Glick, Executive Director of CIGOH. "We are excited to bring this series to our students, residents, colleagues and the public and to share our expertise in a fun and engaging way."

The video series features the talents of actor Gideon Glick and Penn Dental Medicine faculty member Dr. Roopali Kulkarni, who voice wily cat Hans and his wise canine companion Hera, respectively. The podcast episodes explore real-world applications of the statistical concepts through guest interviews with University of Pennsylvania faculty.

"We are thrilled to partner with CIGOH on this innovative and engaging educational series," said Chia-Wei Wu, Executive Director of CETI. "We believe 'Statistics with Crayons' will be an excellent resource for anyone seeking to better understand statistical concepts and their real-world applications."

"Statistics with Crayons" will be released in episode format, with each episode exploring a new statistical concept. The series and accompanying podcast will be available on the Penn Dental Medicine website.

For more information about "Statistics with Crayons" and to view the episodes and podcasts, please visit www.dental.upenn.edu/StatisticsWithCrayons.

Spear Education is excited to announce the upcoming Spear Live event on October 26-27, 2023, in Charlotte, NC. The event, titled "Spear Live: Integrating Complex Dentistry Into Clinical Practice," will feature renowned speakers and educators in the field of dentistry.

This two-day event will showcase Spear’s proven approach to integrating complex dentistry and will be taught by Spear’s leading faculty. Attendees will learn how to see and treat patients differently, with a focus on esthetic-based treatment planning that results in happier patients and more successful practices.

"We're thrilled to bring this event to Charlotte," said Gregg Kinzer, D.D.S., M.SD., Spear faculty member. "Spear Live is an opportunity for dentists to learn how to take on larger more complex cases and produce dramatic patient outcomes. You’ll be able to implement your learnings on Monday when you’re back in the practice."

The featured speakers include Spear Resident Faculty Members:

● Dr. Greggory Kinzer: Dr. Kinzer is the Faculty Chair and Director of Curriculum and Campus Education at Spear Education. He is recognized internationally as an expert in esthetic and reconstructive dentistry. His unique ability to impart complex clinical processes in a logical, systematic and understandable way differentiates him from other dental educators of our time.

● Dr. Jeff Rouse: Dr. Rouse is recognized as a pioneer in the field of airway prosthodontics — the impact that a compromised airway has on the stomatognathic system. Along with Dr. Kinzer, he developed the "Seattle Protocol" to recognize, control and direct resolution of airway distress in a restorative dental practice.

● Dr. Ricardo Mitrani: Dr. Mitrani is an expert on implant prosthodontics and esthetic dentistry, giving more than 500 lectures in 30 countries and authoring many scientific articles and textbook chapters on the topics.

● Dr. Darin Dichter: Dr. Dichter 20+ years of clinical, research and teaching experience as a general practitioner and prosthodontist.

● Dr. Robert Winter: As one of the world's most recognized prosthodontists and ceramists, Dr. Winter focuses on helping dentists understand the interdependence between laboratory procedures, treatment planning, restorative techniques, materials and laboratory procedures through his teaching at Spear.

Spear Live is open to dentists. Attendees will earn 14 continuing education credits and have the opportunity to network with peers and experts in the field.

Registration for Spear Live is now open. Early-bird pricing is available for a limited time. For more information and to register, visit https://campus.speareducation.com/in-person-seminars/spear-live/details/syllabus/.  

Numerous Clients, Including Willis & Associates Family Dentistry, Quickly Embracing New Technology

Planet DDS, the leader in cloud-based software solutions for dental practices, is pleased to announce the successful implementation of new AI capability within its Apteryx XVWeb Cloud Imaging Solution at over 200 dental office locations, including organizations with more than 60 locations. This breakthrough innovation is made possible through its partnership with Overjet, the leading dental AI solution provider, bringing AI-analyzed images chairside for dental practices. One fast-growing dental group, Willis & Associates Family Dentistry, is leading the adoption of this new technology.

As a group with 14 locations and growing, Founder and CEO Dr. James Willis recognized the need for an innovative solution to streamline their imaging processes and improve patient care. They implemented Apteryx XVWeb with AI and saw immediate results with patients and staff.

“The AI capability is a game changer. We use it to show cavities and bone loss as we walk our patients through it. Patients love it because it’s an objective look at their X-rays, so it’s increasing case acceptance for our group,” shared Dr. Willis. “It also helps doctors diagnose consistently. I absolutely love it and so does our team.”

Using Apteryx XVWeb with AI, Dr. Willis and his team have been able to provide more transparency and consistency to their patients as they review X-rays and discuss treatment plans. The AI capability, which is also compatible with Denticon practice management solution, offers easy access to the AI-analyzed X-rays within the viewer, proving to be a powerful tool for patient education. Additionally, the cloud-based solution has enabled clinicians at Willis & Associates to securely access and analyze patient data from any location, improving imaging workflows across locations.

"At Planet DDS, our mission is to deliver the latest advancements in dental technology to improve patient care and help dental practices thrive," said Eric Giesecke, CEO of Planet DDS. "We're thrilled to hear that our valued clients like Willis & Associates and many others are already seeing benefits and return on their technology investments as they improve patient outcomes."

To learn how Apteryx XVWeb with AI can increase transparency, case acceptance, and consistency for your organization, contact Planet DDS today.

Submissions Should Include Proposals for How Community Organizations Can Expand Their Care Delivery

CareQuest Institute for Oral Health®, a leading national nonprofit focused on creating a more accessible, equitable, and integrated oral health system, has launched a request for proposals (RFP) to fund projects and partners geared toward health care transformation. Applicants will likely be community organizations looking to expand how oral health care is delivered or safety net clinical facilities looking to grow their community engagement. Proposals are now open and are due by June 30.

Relevant RFPs should combine two core interrelated elements of work: (a) carry forward care transformation concepts; and (b) ensure authentic and deep community engagement is embedded in the practical implementation of those concepts.

“Investing in organizations that share in our vision of an oral health care system that works better for everyone allows us to get one step closer to a future where everybody can access the health care they need,” said Trenae Simpson, Director of Grants and Programs at CareQuest Institute. “We know that oral health care solutions will not be as effective and meaningful without those individuals most impacted by oral health disparities driving the work. This RFP is an opportunity for oral health providers, advocates, and researchers to share information, act, and collaborate with communities toward a healthier, more equitable future.”

To advance oral health equity and access to quality, whole-person care at a systemic level, CareQuest Institute, along with other partners in oral health care, has been at the forefront of developing and testing care transformation best practices. Winning proposals will focus on the idea that care transformation efforts cannot advance effectively without the community members those efforts intend to serve driving the project forward.

Examples of projects that fall within the Community and Care Transformation Request for Proposals:

● A safety net partner piloting new value-based care procedures within clinical practice, overseen by a representative patient/community body that has active input into the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the new practice impact on patient experience

● A state policy organization utilizing a formal process that ensures ongoing community input and involvement to advocate for medical/dental integration measures within state Medicaid policy

● A community-based or grassroots organization building power among community members to participate in advocacy in local or state policy spaces around care transformation concepts

● A safety net provider collaborating with community partners to expand and use innovative workforce models that are representative of their patients and families

Specific details related to eligibility, proposal requirements, and evaluation criteria can be found on our Community and Care Transformation Request for Proposals page.

Novel Trial to Study the Reduction of Certain Pathogens Following Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC)(TSX:BHC) and its oral health care business, OraPharma, today announced the publication of a new study, which showed that ARESTIN® (minocycline HCI) microspheres, 1mg decreased certain pathogenic burdens, also known as infection burdens, in adults with periodontitis when applied immediately after scaling and root planning (SRP) and again at a three-month reapplication, versus SRP alone. ARESTIN is an FDA-approved antibiotic applied locally to gum pockets in adults with periodontitis following an SRP procedure and is used as part of an overall oral health program. ARESTIN should not be used in people who are allergic to minocycline or tetracyclines.

The investigator-initiated trial, sponsored in part by Bausch Health, and conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, appeared today in the Journal of Periodontology. The study showed minocycline application immediately after initial SRP and reapplication at 3-months after SRP decreased certain key pathogens and may have contributed to improvements in probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP) and gingival index (GI) compared to SRP alone.

"Dental practices need to think about periodontal disease and the role of keystone pathogens that originate in the mouth, can travel, and may be associated with other systemic outcomes such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease," said Richard Nagelberg, DDS, Director of Medical Affairs at Bausch Health. "This study represents an important path forward in helping to manage periodontal disease and we hope it encourages further research in the area of periodontal disease progression and how it may relate to the oral-systemic connection."

Since the pivotal trial, there was a gap in the literature on whether minocycline HCI microspheres, 1mg reduced specific periodontal pathogens. This study identified that the administration of minocycline HCI microspheres, 1mg did significantly decrease specific periodontal pathogens.

The objective of the study entitled, "Effect of Scaling and Root Planing With and Without Minocycline HCl Microspheres on Periodontal Pathogens and Clinical Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial," was to determine if minocycline HCl plus SRP contributed to the improvement of certain clinical measures commonly seen in patients with gum disease. A secondary endpoint was to determine if minocycline microspheres HCl with SRP lowered specific pathogens responsible for periodontitis compared to SRP alone. Saliva and clinical outcomes were collected for both groups at baseline before SRP, 1-month reevaluation, and at 3 and 6-month periodontal recall. Minocycline microspheres (MM) were delivered to pockets ≥5 mm immediately after SRP and immediately after the 3-month periodontal maintenance. This study reported that of the 11 pathogens that play an instrumental role in periodontitis, there were six periodontal pathogens that had a statistically significant decrease at 1-month and four periodontal pathogens with a statistically significant decrease at the 6-month periodontal maintenance versus the SRP group alone. This study also reported that minocycline HCI plus SRP achieved greater improvement for probing depth, bleeding on probing, gingival index, and improvement in clinical attachment loss by the six-month periodontal maintenance versus SRP alone.

Limitations of the study include the lack of a blinded examiner for clinical outcomes and lack of patient-reported outcome measures. The principal investigator (PI) collected saliva, recorded clinical measures and provided treatment for both groups. The participants in this study were predominantly from the Midwestern region, Caucasian and over the age of 50 years old, which does not represent the general population of individuals with periodontitis.

"There was a larger decrease of Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum, Prevotella intermedia, Parvimonas micra and Eikenella corrodens in the SRP + MM group," said Dr. Nagelberg. It is notable that minocycline HCl microspheres, 1mg immediately following SRP procedures reduced these specific periodontal pathogens by the 1-month reevaluation.

The previous pivotal study (Williams et al., 2001) was conducted to determine if minocycline HCI plus SRP reduced pocket depth in patients with generalized moderate to advanced adult periodontitis versus SRP alone. Subjects treated with minocycline HCI plus SRP were found to have statistically significantly reduced probing pocket depth compared with those treated with SRP alone or SRP + vehicle at 9 months after initial treatment.

About the Study

A total of 70 participants were randomized to receive SRP alone, or SRP with minocycline HCl microspheres, 1mg following the procedure, and again at the 3-month periodontal visit. Participants in both groups received periodontal evaluations at baseline, one month, three months and six months following the initial SRP procedure. The primary goal of this study was to determine the adjunctive effects of minocycline microspheres (MM) on clinical outcomes of PD, CAL, BOP, and GI after SRP+MM compared to SRP alone. Secondary outcome variables were the relative numbers of 11 periodontal pathogens in saliva after SRP+MM compared to SRP alone. The bacterial load and pathogenic burden were determined using a salivary test.

Microorganisms and secondary periodontal measurements were compared between groups using generalized linear mixed-effects models, with fixed effects for group, visit, site (for clinical measurements), and group-by-visit and group-by-site interactions, and random effects for participant and site within participant. Mean changes from baseline were compared between groups via group-by-visit interaction tests.

The six periodontal pathogens observed in the test group to have a statistically significant decrease compared to the SRP alone group at the one-month follow-up visit were Tannerella forsythia (Tf) (0.003), Treponema denticola (Td) (0.01), Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum (Fn/Fp)(0.0009), Prevotella intermedia (Pi) (0.04), Parvimonas micra (Pm) (<0.0001), and Eikenella corrodens (Ec) (0.02). Further, the four periodontal pathogens observed in the test group to have a statistically significant decrease compared to the SRP alone group at the final six-month visit were Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum (Fn/Fp) (0.02), Prevotella intermedia (0.05), Campylobacter rectus (Cr) (0.04) and Eikenella corrodens (0.0002).

Limitations of the study include the lack of a blinded examiner for clinical outcomes and lack of patient-reported outcome measures. The principal investigator (collected saliva, recorded clinical measures and provided treatment for both groups. The participants in this study were predominantly from the Midwestern region, Caucasian and over the age of 50 years old, which does not represent the general population of individuals with periodontitis.

The statistical analysis for this research was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Advancing Translational Science.

Woods System of Care’s Three Outpatient Healthcare Centers in Langhorne, Pa. Welcome Patients for Primary, Dental, and Behavioral Healthcare

Woods System of Care, a network of healthcare organizations located in Pennsylvania and New Jersey that ensures lifelong support to individuals with disabilities, has launched Woods Healthcare to offer world-class outpatient health and behavioral care for children, adolescents, and adults in the community with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges. Woods Healthcare includes three outpatient healthcare centers – The Center for Behavioral Health at Woods, The Medical Center at Woods, and Penn Dental Medicine at Woods Mikey Faulkner Dental Care Center – which are now open to the community. The three centers are located on the Bucks County site of Woods Services at 10 Meadowood Drive in Langhorne, Pa. Community members can now make appointments by calling 215-750-4004 and learn more at www.woodshealthcare.org.

“With the launch of Woods Healthcare, we are building on a long tradition of experience and service to our community,” said Tine Hansen-Turton, president and CEO of Woods System of Care and Woods Services. “For more than a century, Woods has been a leader in providing comprehensive lifelong care to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges at Woods. Our industry-leading specialists know how to break down the barriers that stand in the way of quality care for people with disabilities,” she said. “Now, with Woods Healthcare, we are expanding our services to support the community by providing individuals with disabilities access to world-class comprehensive primary care, dental care, and behavioral healthcare throughout their lifetime.”

The Center for Behavioral Health at Woods specializes in helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges achieve their highest potential and independence. With a wellness team that includes psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, nurse navigators, counselors, and family therapists, The Center for Behavioral Health at Woods provides outpatient services for individuals ages six years through adults and seniors, including: intake, psychiatric, and diagnostics assessments; medication review and coordination; complex condition nurse navigation; and extended therapy. The Center for Behavioral Health at Woods also evaluates children ages 12 months through adolescents aged 18 years for autism spectrum disorder, making diagnoses and treatment recommendations. Sailaja Musunuri, MD, executive vice president of Integrative Medicine and Chief of Psychiatry, oversees integrated healthcare at Woods and across the Woods System of Care, including the new Center for Behavioral Health at Woods.

The Medical Center at Woods, which is led by Dr. Stephen J. Kolesk, chief medical officer/vice president for Medical Affairs and Managed Care at Woods, provides primary care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges. The Medical Center offers outpatient services for individuals ages six through adults and seniors. The Medical Center at Woods serves as a national model for providing comprehensive, coordinated personalized care for people with complex diagnoses and medical conditions. In April 2023, the Medical Center at Woods was awarded Recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance Patient-Centered Medical Home Program (www.ncqa.org).

Penn Dental Medicine at Woods, Mikey Faulkner Dental Care Center is a state-of-the-art dental care center providing enhanced and leading-edge dental treatment for individuals of all ages. Woods partnered with the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, one of the leading dental schools in the United States, to develop the dental program, and Dr. Marc Henschel, director of Penn Dental Medicine’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry program, oversees the new center. The Woods facility includes five treatment rooms with advanced equipment, quiet space for those needing a lower-stimulation environment, a waiting area and reception check-in, and conference room. In addition to meeting the dental care needs of individuals with disabilities, Penn Dental Medicine at Woods, Mikey Faulkner Dental Care Center is helping prepare the next generation of dentists to care for patients with disabilities.

“We launched the Medical Center at Woods in June 2018, to provide a patient-centered medical home for the clients we serve and our Woods employees,” Hansen-Turton said. “We added Penn Dental Medicine at Woods in February 2023, followed by The Center for Behavioral Health in March. Now, we are opening these centers to the community, providing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and emotional and behavioral challenges with needed services in close proximity to their homes,” she said.

Start-up funding of $500,000 for The Center for Behavioral Health was awarded to Woods by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick through a Community Project Funding grant. The project was supported by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and selected because it will bridge the gap in mental health services in Bucks County. Penn Dental Medicine at Woods Mikey Faulkner Dental Care Center renovations and operational expenses were made possible through generous donations from foundations and individuals. Woods Services is grateful to the Donald B. and Dorothy L. Stabler Foundation for supporting start-up operational expenses and to the Joseph and Mary Faulkner Family Foundation, Eamon Foundation, The McLean Contributionship, TD Charitable Foundation, Simon and Lisa Kimmelman, and Penn Community Bank for supporting the renovations. The waiting room renovation was made possible by the Joseph and Mary Faulkner Family Foundation.

In early 2024, the three new Woods Healthcare centers will be joined by a primary care center to serve individuals in N.J. In April 2023, RWJBarnabas Health, Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, and Woods Services announced they joined forces to establish the very first integrated primary and behavioral health care center for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism in New Jersey. The Governor and the New Jersey Legislature recognized the critical need for I/DD services by supporting a grant of $800,000 toward the start-up costs for the initiative. The world-class center is expected to open to families and individuals in early 2024 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton in Hamilton, Mercer County, New Jersey. The Center will serve individuals who live in the central New Jersey region, with future plans to expand services to other areas of the state.

Woods is organized around the principles of population health management and addresses the social determinants of health through a comprehensive continuum and system of care that connects prevention, wellness, education, behavioral health, and social services with coordinated and integrated healthcare delivery.

For more information about Woods Healthcare or to schedule an appointment at one of its three outpatient centers, call 215-750-4004.