Th Products 01

Products: In-Depth Focus

Nov. 1, 2008

Vivera™ retainers by Invisalign

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Vivera™ is a clear thermoplastic retainer that can also be made for any orthodontic patient from a PVS impression. Vivera™ retainers are manufactured using the Invisalign system’s advanced fabrication technology for a precise, smooth, and comfortable fit. They are available as a subscription of four sets of retainers shipped over time to accommodate multiple retention philosophies.

Vivera™ retainers are 30% stronger than those made with other clear retainer materials tested, and are strong enough to self-correct certain types of minor relapse that may occur during the subscription period — up to 0.25 mm per tooth.

Vivera™ retainers are produced from USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins, tested for biocompatibility and shown to pass all applicable regulatory requirements and thresholds for wear in the human mouth. Aligners and retainers do not contain Bisphenol-A nor phthalate plasticizers.

For more information, visit www.viveraretainers.com

What the Experts Don’t Tell You about Going Paperless

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There is a lot of talk these days about going paperless. Experts lecture on the importance of eliminating paper and how it can be done. But they typically skip over the specifics of how to go paperless in a practical way. It should make running your practice easier, not more difficult. Patient Relations Management Software, or PRM, does two things to ensure a long-term paperless solution: 1) it electronically manages all of your patient relationships and charts, making you 100% paperless; and 2) it automates many of the duties your front office staff currently have to perform manually, which helps you accomplish more with less effort and saves you money.

If you’re looking for a long-term paperless solution, PRM technology is the next generation of dental software and will significantly enhance the efficiency within your office while making you completely paperless. Learn more at www.gopaperlessnow.com.

Prevent pain, boost productivity, and extend your career

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In her groundbreaking new book, “Practice Dentistry Pain-free: Evidence-based Strategies to Prevent Pain and Extend Your Career,” Bethany Valachi has taken the problem of work-related pain in dentistry and distilled it into the basic “whys” and “hows” imperative to effective injury prevention and treatment. Developed for dentists, hygienists, faculty, and students, this comprehensive, research-based guide targets chronic back, neck, shoulder, and hand pain, explaining how they develop in dentistry, and targets specific intervention strategies. Special chapters include ergonomic equipment selection, exercise for dental professionals, and chapters for dental assistants and front office. A helpful “Resources” section provides additional ergonomic resources and contact information.

Bethany Valachi is a physical therapist and dental ergonomic consultant who has consulted nationwide for more than 10 years. She is clinical instructor of ergonomics at OHSU School of Dentistry in Portland, Ore., and lectures internationally.

Practice Dentistry Pain-Free is available for $39.95 at www.posturedontics.com or by calling (503) 291-5121.

Midwest® Stylus™ ATC

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For the first time in dental history, air and electric handpieces have fused into a single handpiece system. Midwest® Stylus™ ATC delivers the power and efficiency of electric handpieces without sacrificing the superior access, light weight, and familiar comfort of air-powered high-speeds.

The patented Adaptive Torque Control (ATC) technology actively senses the need for torque, and automatically adjusts performance while the clinician is cutting. Stylus ATC is equipped with a robust air turbine to avoid overheating common with electrics, and operates at a low pitch for a more relaxed working environment. Experience this innovative revolutionary technology at www.StylusATC.com.

FRIOS® Unit S/i Implant Motor by DENTSPLY Tulsa Dental Specialties

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The FRIOS® Unit S/i gives practitioners an additional tool to support their expertise in placing dental implants. It delivers unparalleled form and function by combining a large, high-contrast display and a simple operating concept with a shorter, lighter, and more efficient maintenance-free surgical motor. The unit features a clearly structured program sequence — including thread tapping — which can be controlled by the press of a button or by the ergonomically designed foot control. The pushbutton tapping function is an exclusive feature of the FRIOS® Unit S/i.

Four preset programs can be selected successively from left to right directly on the unit or with the foot control. Unlike general-use surgical units, it automatically stops irrigation when using the implant placement setting.

All FRIOS contra-angle handpieces can be sterilized up to 135 degrees Celsius, which complies with the most rigid hygiene regulations. Call (800) 662-1202 or visit www.tulsadentalspecialties.com.

New sectional matrix system produces anatomical composites

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The new Composi-Tight® 3D™ Sectional Matrix System from Garrison Dental Solutions features the all-new Soft Face™ 3D-Ring with contoured soft silicone faces that mold sectional matrix bands to the teeth. The result is an improved anatomical shape without buccal or lingual flash when performing Class II posterior composite restorations.

Each 3D-Ring tip has a firm core that directs the ring tension interproximally for increased tooth separation and tighter contacts. Ring placement is made easier with a groove in the bottom of each tip that allows placement directly over and around the wedge.

The introductory kit includes Soft Face™ 3D-Rings, thin-tine G-Rings® for difficult dentition, a selection of five sizes of sectional matrix bands, and a custom ring placement forceps. It is backed by Garrison’s six-month, hassle-free, money-back guarantee. Order direct at www.garrisondental.com or call (888) 437-0032.

IntraFlow™ Anesthesia Delivery System

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Using the IntraFlow™ Intraosseous Anesthesia Delivery System is now easier than ever! The newly-styled IntraFlow™ Disposables is a product that is both easier to assemble and use clinically. IntraFlow™ effectively achieves profound and reliable anesthesia, which can be used for cosmetic and restorative procedures, endodontic therapy, oral surgery, and implantology. The IntraFlow™ system uses a simple, one-step technique to deliver focused anesthesia while minimizing facial numbness and patient discomfort without distortion to the lip line. The system is especially useful for fear management in anxious dental patients. Pain relief and profound pulpal anesthesia are achieved in approximately one minute, saving valuable chair time and allowing practitioners to work in multiple quadrants during a single visit.

Contact Pro-Dex, Inc., at (800) 562-6204, or visit www.intraflow.com.

New Denar® Mark 330 articulator from Whip Mix

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New from Whip Mix Restorative Oral Health Division, the Denar® Mark 330 articulator offers factory-set interchangeability to within 20 microns of accuracy. Several dentists spent valuable time putting this articulator through excursive movements to guarantee highly precise simulations of the patient’s mandibular motions. The features of this next-generation articulator include condylar inclination adjustable from 0 to 60 degrees, progressive side shift adjustable from 0 to 15 degrees, immediate side shift adjustable from 0 mm to 2 mm, a positive centric latch that allows the upper and lower members to be separated or positively locked together in centric relation, stability in three ergonomic positions, and a built-in magnetic mounting system. It uses all finger screws; no tools are required, and a durable anodized finish on all mechanical parts extends longevity.

Call (800) 201-7286 or visit www.whipmix.com.

Experience a new level of precision with piezo diamonds

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When you’re preparing a small area, piezo diamonds allow a precision that’s impossible to duplicate with rotary instruments. Parkell’s piezo diamonds can be used in a TurboPIEZO or EMS scaler to quickly trim overhangs, open pulp chambers, remove stained margins around composite restorations, and smooth and refine bur-cut preps.

Simply touch the surface with one of these diamonds and tooth structure disappears as if it were being erased on a computer screen. The piezo (especially the fine grit) rapidly creates a very smooth, very meticulous cut, which speeds up endo procedures, especially on heavily calcified canal orifices.

Choose the piezo diamond tip to match the application. Designed to be used methodically in short bursts for maximum precision, piezo diamonds are available in three grits — fine, medium, and coarse, and two shapes — straight and curved — for $75.99 each.

Visit Parkell at www.parkell.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (800) 243-7446.

DEXIS® and DENTRIX® — in sync for greater efficiency

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DEXIS, LLC introduces DEXIS® Integrator™ for DENTRIX® — a new level of seamless integration between DEXIS Digital X-ray and DENTRIX Practice Management. It provides direct and immediate one-click access to all of the patient’s images, DEXIS imaging software, and image acquisition — all from within the patient’s DENTRIX chart. These efficiencies are expanded with simplified image attachment for referrals, cases, and e-claims. The DEXIS Image Pane allows viewing and accessing all available intra- and extraoral, X-ray, and camera images, and then allows easy and quick selection of specific images for administrative and clinical functions.

Integrator enables image enlargement up to full screen, the application of ClearVu™ image enhancement, as well as annotations, all without leaving the DENTRIX chart. Other features include image indicators on the chart that alert the clinician of pre-existing images for each tooth, full integration with Henry Schein’s GURU™ Patient Education, and one-click attachment of selected images to Web referrals, lab cases, and insurance e-claims. Visit www.dexis.com.

Indigreen Innovations now offers the Cosmetic Aligner®

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Indigreen Innovations has gained exclusive distributor rights for the Cosmetic Aligner® Midline and Horizontal Plane Transfer Device.

After tooth preparation, the anterior midline and the horizontal plane are often difficult to determine, yet they are critical to communicate to the lab for accurate fabrications of esthetic restorations. The economical Cosmetic Aligner® improves critical esthetic restoration communications between the dentist and the laboratory. Together with any quick-set bite material, the compact one-piece device registers the anterior midline between central incisors and the horizontal plane. By only recording centrals, it reduces material waste and cumbersome, inaccurate cross-stick bite impression methods.

Cosmetic Aligners® are packaged 25 disposable cosmetic aligners per box. The technique for use is explained on the Web site. Visit www.indigreen.com.

Identic® and KromaFaze® alginates keep it neat — and consistent

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DUX Dental offers its Identic® and KromaFaze® alginates, now conveniently packaged in Singles™. Each packet contains the perfect amount of alginate powder for one average, full-arch impression. The all-in-one package design incorporates the water measure as part of the Singles packet. The only one of its kind, Singles eliminates traditional alginate canisters, powder scoops, and water measures.

Singles are not only simple, clean, and expedient, but they ensure consistent mixes every time. Identic Singles come 125 packs per case in Fast Set with cinnamon scent; and KromaFaze Singles come 125 packs per case in Fast Set with mint scent (color-changing formula). For more information or to order, call (800) 833-8267 or visit www.duxdental.com.

For more in-depth details on these products, please circle Reader Service #31 on the card

EXACTA Dental Direct adds StoneBite® scan to its CAD/CAM line

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EXACTA Dental Direct’s StoneBite® scan is a recent addition to its CAD/CAM product line, which includes BlueSpray and GreenFit. StoneBite® scan is a VPS bite registration material that was designed for CAD/CAM users who need to scan registrations during the design phases of a CAD/CAM restoration. Thanks to a rigid 32 Shore D Hardness, StoneBite Scan can be easily trimmed and its reflective properties provide crisp and accurate optical impressions.

The medium viscosity of the material will not slump or flow off of the teeth. Each kit contains two 50 ml cartridges and 12 ribbon-style mixing tips. StoneBite® scan is the third product in EXACTA Dental Direct’s CAD/CAM product line.

BlueSpray scanning spray is an aerosolized-based powdering alternative for optical impressions, and GreenFit is a low-viscosity silicone for checking the internal adaptation of milled restorations or traditionally fabricated crowns and bridges.

The bluephase G2: for every material, every time

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Ivoclar Vivadent’s bluephase G2 is the first cordless high-performance polymerization light to offer limitless LED curing to the dental office. Suitable for every clinical situation, the unit can be used for the fast polymerization of all light-curing dental materials in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 515 nm.

To date, conventional LED lights have not been suitable for universal use, due to their narrow emission spectrum. Like halogen lights, the innovative bluephase G2 achieves a broad light spectrum of 380 nm to 515 nm. With its specially developed Polywave LED, the bluephase G2 light is suitable for all light initiators and, therefore, its use is unrestricted. Its noiseless, built-in cooling fan means it can be used for an unlimited period of time to cure all indications. And its state-of-the-art, 60-minute capacity, lithium polymer batteries offer the ultimate in mobility. For more information, call (800) 533-6825 or visit www.ivoclarvivadent.us.

Foundation™ bone-filling augmentation material

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Foundation™, by J. Morita, is a revolutionary bone-filling augmentation material for use after teeth extractions. It is not a bone substitute, but rather stimulates new bone growth at an accelerated pace.

Immediately following an extraction, Foundation™ is placed into the socket. Once inserted, the surrounding cells and capillaries gradually infiltrate Foundation™. As the extraction socket heals, it is filled with new augmented bone. There is no need to remove it and no membrane is required. It is ideal for pre-implant augmentation, as it will stimulate bone to fill in at an accelerated pace, which allows implants to be placed sooner, in some cases as early as eight to 12 weeks. It is also recommended for 3rd molar sockets to ensure good “bony” support on the distal of second molars.

In addition to patient benefits, Foundation™ also makes good financial sense for clinicians. For more information, call (888) JMORITA (566-7482), contact your dealer, or visit www.jmoritausa.com.

Orascoptic® combines magnification and laser protection

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Orascoptic® introduces a new line of Laser Loupes — the industry’s first through-the-lens loupe with built-in protective filters for laser users. Laser use is growing rapidly, and the ability to combine magnification with eye protection allows dentists and hygienists to provide uncompromised patient care.

Currently, there are limited options for loupe wearers who want eye protection during laser applications. The Orascoptic® Laser Loupe combines all of the customized benefits of a traditional through-the-lens loupe, with unprecedented protection from laser radiation. Each loupe is tailored to the individual’s specific facial geometry, working distance, and angle of declination. Protective filters are employed in both the carrier lenses and the telescopes, providing the highest level of safety, performance, and lightweight comfort.

The filters absorb a variety of laser wavelengths, including diode, YAG, and Erbium. The loupes are available in award-winning HiRes Class II magnification, as well as the powerful Class IV HiRes Plus telescopes. To learn more, visit www.orascoptic.com.

New DuraFinish™ ALL-CURE by Parkell Inc.

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At last, a pretty face that stands up to wear! Give your restorations a tough-as-nails, glass-like finish in just 60 seconds — without polishing. DuraFinish™ ALL-CURE nanofilled glaze may be polymerized with any dental curing light. It provides a long-lasting, stain-resistant surface for all temporaries and composite restorations, and the esthetic result is superior to any produced by points and wheels.

Restorations continue to maintain their high gloss for months after initial placement, and will not yellow over time. In addition, DuraFinish™ ALL-CURE bonds securely to old composite, so worn restorations may be refinished easily and beautifully. Its low viscosity provides a uniform thickness, with no oxygen-inhibited layer after cure.

As with all Parkell products, DuraFinish™ ALL-CURE comes with a 30-day, risk-free trial. For more information or to order, call (800) 243-7446 or visit www.parkell.com.

Soothe-Guard Air™ lead-free radiography aprons

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DENTSPLY Rinn announces an addition to its protective radiography aprons line: a lead-free radiography apron.

The innovative lead-free protective alloy lining provides all of the X-ray protection of traditional lead with a fraction of the weight, which makes it more comfortable for the patient as well as providing easier placement for technicians.

The apron’s silky-smooth material has an exquisite feel that is relaxing and comforting for the patient. The Soothe-Guard Air™ aprons are also environmentally friendly, requiring no special disposal procedure. For complementing your practice and office décor, they are available in multiple styles and colors.

For more information, call (800) 323-0970 or visit www.rinncorp.com.

New pediatric educational products from SmartPractice®

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Now you can easily educate parents and encourage early preventive care for a lifetime of good oral health! SmartPractice® introduces a line of patient communications and giveaway products designed to reach the pediatric market. These creative materials educate and inform parents of young patients and engage children in the oral care process to start them on the path to a lifetime of good oral health.

The new pediatric product line includes recall and appointment cards, brochures, magnets, slide guides, Tooth Fairy-themed giveaways, Sippy Cups, apparel, and more. All items include free personalization, and most ship within 48 hours. To receive a free SmartPractice® Patient Communications catalog, call (800) 522-0800 or order online at smartpractice.com.

The Spee™ Reducer IPR System ensures patient safety

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This is the ideal system for any dentist concerned about patient safety as well as chairside productivity. How often have you worried about reducing too much enamel while performing your interproximal reduction, or worried about your patient moving when the diamond is in close proximity to soft tissue? The Spee™ Slenderizer System addresses these key problems. Spee’s patent pending 16:1 straight reduction handpiece slows the rotation speed of the diamond disk without losing any power needed to properly perform your IPR procedures. Used in combination with Spee’s patented Clear Disposable Disk Guard™, you can rest easy knowing your patient’s safety is assured.

Try this system for 30 days, and if you don’t like it, just ship it back to Spee, and they will credit your account 100%.

For more information, call (866) 369-1978 or respond to this offer at www.speecorp.com/offers/trial.

Patient brochure explains —“Implants and Others…When Teeth Go Missing”

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“Implants and Others…When Teeth Go Missing” has joined the Stepping Stones to Success family of products. Implants are a proven and increasingly common treatment option. However, implant misinformation is widespread, and standard brochures do little to help patients with answers to the questions they really ask.

This brochure is different. It uses easy-to-understand terms and focuses on questions patients ask every day. It addresses the reasons missing teeth should be replaced (many patients do not understand this), presents a simple description of how an implant “works,” and even covers the limited nature of insurance payment for implant services.

Written by Carol Tekavec, CDA, RDH, an insurance columnist and ADA Seminar Series speaker with 28 years of clinical hygiene experience, this brochure is the sixth in her popular Stepping Stones series. For more information or to see the brochure, go to www.steppingstonestosuccess.com or call (800) 548-2164.

Zimmer Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant System delivers versatility and choice

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Zimmer Dental Inc., is offering its renowned Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant System as a means of comprehensively satisfying a myriad of clinical needs. With its one-piece and two-piece implants, the Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant System provides versatility and delivers performance thousands count on, case after case.

The Zimmer® One-Piece continues to be a stellar member of the Tapered Screw-Vent® family — providing 3.0 mm, 3.7 mm, and 4.7 mm diameter solutions. For clinicians in need of a two-piece solution, the Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant incorporates the features and benefits of Zimmer Dental’s renowned Tapered Screw-Vent® Implant System: friction-fit internal hex connection, triple-lead threads, both MTX™ micro-textured and MP-1® HA surfaces, and a tapered implant body. It is available in 3.7 mm, 4.1 mm, 4.7 mm, and 6.0 mm sizes. Designed for initial implant stability, the system also enables immediate restorations and immediate loading where clinically appropriate.

Call your Zimmer consultant, call (800) 854-7019, or visit www.zimmerdental.com for more information.

N’Durance composite system from Septodont is simply simple

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The N’Durance Nano Dimer composite system simplifies esthetic composite placement with the offering of two technique-oriented composite kits: self-etch and total etch. The latest breakthrough in composite technology in more than 30 years, N’Durance uses a proprietary chemical formulation of Dimer Acid with Nano technology, which demonstrates greater polymerization with significantly lower shrinkage than the most popular composites. Tested at the University of Colorado, Loma Linda, in California and Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, N’Durance exhibits superior esthetics, radiopacity that rivals amalgam, and a compressive strength of 319 MPa. N’Durance can be used with confidence in all classes of anterior and posterior direct dental restorations.

Uni-dose tips (for self-etch kits) and 4.5 gm syringes (for total etch kits) are available in 16 Vita shades, plus bleach white, universal opaque, and Incisal. N’Durance is available through your dental dealer. For more information, call (800) 872-8305 or visit www.septodontusa.com.

The Gendex GXCB-500™ cone beam 3-D imaging system

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Gendex Dental Systems offers the GXCB-500™, an affordable cone beam 3-D imaging system powered by industry-leading i-CAT technology. Unique to the GXCB-500™ is a “medium” scan area of both arches that can extend to encompass the TMJ area, which makes the system a powerful diagnostic and treatment-planning tool for implant planning, TMJ analysis, and various surgical procedures.

The GXCB-500’s™ Amorphous Silicon Flat Panel sensor yields accurate, highly detailed images at one of the fastest scan and reconstruction rates in the industry. Adding to its value, the system also serves as a traditional 2-D digital panoramic without changing sensors.

For more information, visit www.gxcb500.com.