Independent study recognizes company's innovative ability in dentistry

ST. PAUL, Minnesota--For the second straight year, 3M ESPE has ranked as the most innovative company in the dental industry, according to the 2006 Dental Industry Review conducted by The Anaheim Group.

"At the heart of the company's culture lies 100+ years of research and development expertise, making discovery a way of life at 3M ESPE," said Jeff Lavers, division vice president, 3M ESPE. "With more than 6,500 scientists companywide, it's no surprise that innovation is fostered at every level within the organization--from the lab to the sales force."

During the past five years, 3M ESPE has led the dental industry with an average of 45 innovations per year. Entering 2007, the company is once again poised to retain its "most innovative" designation with early introductions of RelyX Unicem Self-Adhesive Universal Resin Cement in the Clicker Dispenser and Protemp Crown Temporization Material.

"Our people understand that innovation, in and of itself, is not enough," continued Lavers. "It's only when we combine that spirit of discovery with customer insights that we are able to apply our deep knowledge and technological expertise for the betterment of dentistry."

The Anaheim Group considers three components in its innovation index, including: FDA 510(k) new product clearances for the U.S. market; United States Patent Office dental industry patents; and dental patents from the European Patent Office and the World International Patent Office. The Dental Industry Review summarizes the key business and technical events occurring in the worldwide dental industry.

For more information about the designation, visit the company's Web site at 3M ESPE.