Spreading Goodwill & Strong Smiles Across America

Administrator — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:50:15 +0000

What better way to ring off the Fourth of July weekend than with news about some of the great volunteers and philanthropic efforts in the dental field over the past week? These are just a sampling of the many news stories that often get overlooked for more exciting events. Think about what America could be like if every dental professional spent just one our each week volunteering dental services to those who can’t afford rising healthcare costs!

Volunteer Dentists Treat More than 1100 in Two-Day Event

Free Dental Clinic in West Virginia Serves More than 700

Tallahassee Pros Trained to Give Free Dental Care to Kids

Mobile Dental Clinic Ministers in Grifton

Dell Foundation Awards 2008 ‘Healthy Community’ Grants to 27 Non …

OTC SleepRight Night Guard Approved by FDA

Administrator — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:00:55 +0000

Now bruxers can go to the pharmacy and purchase a night guard that offers immediate gratification – no boil and bite instructions. Splintek created the SleepRight night guard, a flexible, comfortable appliance that automatically adjusts to fit. Splintek’s website says that health professionals may be eligible for special pricing. Call 1-888-792-0865 to learn more.

Emmott on Technology

Larry Emmott — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:13:12 +0000

Digital Radiography is one of the most exciting and fastest growing technologies in dentistry. It is also the area with the most misinformation. I constantly talk with dentists who either do buy digital for the wrong reasons or don’t buy for the wrong reasons.

My comprehensive technology guide, “Digital Radiography” exposes nine myths about digital radiography and it will answer the basic question…Why bother? It then provides step by step help choosing and then setting up digital x-rays.

You will learn about; the five part imaging chain, the sensor wars, image enhancement and much more. And what will come as a complete shock to most dentists… there is even a budget and financial analysis that shows how digital radiography is actually cheaper than film.

“Digital Radiography” will answer all your questions, provide a plan and show you how to save money… all delivered in a fun and easy to understand style.

Patients Ignore Specialist Referrals

Administrator — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:12:37 +0000

When you refer a patient to a specialist, do you think he’ll really go? According to Kelton Research, about half of the folks (age 18-49) you refer to a specialist will ignore the suggestion. Specialists are losing revenue, and your patients could lose a hold on their oral health. How can you help the situation? After all, these are adults we’re talking about here. They can make up their own minds. I challenge you to think outside the box and try to bring your numbers up in this area. How can you help your patients understand and prioritize a specialist referral?

SOURCE: http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2008/06/23/daily48.html

Men Put Dental Care on Back Burner

Administrator — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:10:14 +0000

Dentists in tune with dental marketing know that women tend to be the decision makers in a household. But did you know that men are less likely to visit the dentist? About 45% of the folks who took an AGD poll feel like men don’t need to visit the dentist, and 30% don’t go because they’re scared or embarrassed. A peek at your schedule will probably confirm this bit of trivia. According to “Why is Oral Health Important for Men” in Smileline, guys go to the dentist when something bad happens – like a major toothache or injury. However, believe it or not, more men are going to the dentist for cosmetic dentistry! It’s all about image. The good news is, once guys are in the dentist’s door, a thorough checkup, cleaning, and oral cancer screen aren’t far behind. Read Smileline in full and subscribe to the email newsletter here.

SOURCE: http://www.agd.org/public/enewsletter/

Dentists Love Cosmetics

Administrator — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:18:25 +0000

At TheWealthyDentist.com, a recent survey reveals what we already knew – dentists love to create beautiful smiles! Maybe it’s the artistry that goes into reshaping, coloring, and building a new smile; maybe it’s the life-changing results in a patient’s life… The survey says that the favorites rank as follows, cosmetic dentistry at 37%, implants at 28%, sedation at 16%, and Invisalign at 13%. Another major difference, nearly half of GDs prefer cosmetics as their favorite, whereas only 16% of specialists feel the same. Specialists preferred dental implants. A geographical line is evident, as well. City dentists liked Invisalign, but their rural peers didn’t care for the clear braces as much. It is those country dentists who favor cosmetics most – 50%. Urban dentists came in at 29%.

Should the ADA Regulate Cosmetic Dentistry?

Administrator — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:54:32 +0000

The American Dental Association recognizes nine specialties that require advanced education. These are dental public health, oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral and maxillofacial radiology, oral and maxillofacial pathology, endodontics, orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, pediatric dentistry (pedodontics), periodontics, and prosthodontics. As you are well aware, cosmetic dentistry isn’t on the list. A survey at DPR World asks whether cosmetic dentistry should become a board-certified specialty. At present, the votes are split almost perfectly, with 51% saying yes and 49% saying no.

While many dentists actively pursue regular CEs in esthetics, any GD can hang a shingle touting “cosmetic dentist.” And because cosmetics accounted for about $500K per practice annually – that’s $2.75 billion total – everyone wants to be a cosmetic dentist! Problem is, the general public doesn’t necessarily know that cosmetic dentistry is not a regulated specialty. Is this misleading? In advertising, a dentist is not supposed to claim to “specialize” in cosmetic dentistry, per the ADA. And a wise consumer will check out a cosmetic dentist’s portfolio before making a move. Still… is it fair? Share your opinion at DPR World!

Dentist’s Curing Light Cures Cancer?!?

Administrator — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:24:57 +0000

A study at Medical College of Georgia found that the blue light dentists use to harden composite resin in fillings has desirable side effects. The light causes oral cancer cells to stop growing or self-destruct. The study found a 10-percent increase in cell suicide (apoptosis) and an 80-percent reduction in cell growth. Furthermore, an appropriate dose of blue light therapy will not harm healthy cells. Researchers included Mr. Alpesh Patel, Dr. Jill Lewis, Dr. Regina Messer, and Dr. John Wataha. Mr. Patel, the student whose findings won him the third place in the American Association for Dental Research Student Research Group DENTSPLY/Caulk Competition, hopes that blue light therapy might someday be used with other therapies to treat various cancers and reduce the need for chemotherapy.

SOURCE: Eurekalert!

Dental Educational Materials & CEs Online

Administrator — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:13:22 +0000

Continuing education, the Internet, and self-learning have combined to make postgraduate education easier than ever. For instance, The Dawson Center offers a great selection of videos and books, as well as other resources for your entire team, available for purchase online. Educational materials from Pankey and LVI are right at your fingertips these days. You can even earn CEs online. For instance, at DDSonline Continuing Education, a company that has served dentists for over a decade, offers online courses as well as onsite workshops across the country. And if you need a greater variety, check out DCEdental, a database offering information on thousands of online CE courses.

Some of the knowledge you need to run your business efficiently has nothing to do with CEs, though. For instance, as a small business owner, staying on top of the latest technology for your practice is paramount.

Dental technology guru, Larry Emmott, now offers Technology Guides, a selection of step-by-step manuals to help you create the hi-tech office of your dreams. The downloadable guides are packed with information on budgets, buying guides, examples, photos, and philosophy. Topics include going paperless, digital radiography, and computers in the treatment rooms, but soon the guides will be combined into one printed manual. Right now, Dr. Emmott is offering his Technology Guides at a reduced cost on his website.

Don’t be scared to take advantage of the convenience the Internet offers. Make your life much easier by purchasing the business and clinical education you and your team need – all at the click of a button.

Don’t Get Lost: SEO to Focus Your Dental Website Marketing

Administrator — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:47:43 +0000

You’ve invested in a fabulous website to promote your practice online. After all, it’s the thing to do. Everyone’s online these days – at least everyone who you want to attract to your practice. The problem is, no matter how sensational your website, it is potentially competing with every other dental website in the world. How can you narrow your market to limit your competition and get your site in front of your target audience?

First of all, you need a solid SEO strategy. SEO stands for search engine optimization. In short, SEO is the elements that make a website show up closer to page one or two, ideally closer to the top of page one, in search engine results. A person is looking for a new dentist. He goes to his laptop, types his city and “dentist” into the Google or Yahoo search bar, then hits enter. A list pops up. Now how can your name and website be on that list?

Over time, all sites that are built with what we call live text (instead of all artwork) will show up somewhere in ranking reports. To make it to the top of the list, however, your site needs a good SEO strategy based on keywords that accurately and tightly represent your services and location. The location keywords will narrow your competition. If you’re in Boston, then Boston and some surrounding towns should be worked into the live text on your website, along with the services you offer.

Spiders are the mechanisms that read websites and determine their rankings. To rank well, your site must please the spiders. Some things tick the spiders off. In fact, if you use “black hat” tactics, your site could actually be banned from search engines. Your best bet is to choose a search engine marketing company that understands your market and the Internet. Because SEO rules and practices change constantly, it is in your best interest to let someone else – an expert - take care of your SEO program so that you can take care of your patients and your business.

One dental website design firm, TNT Dental, offers a comprehensive SEO program. To understand your practice and market, a TNT representative will interview you. Then a team of SEO experts will develop a targeted keyword list based on the interview. Your site will be written, developed, and optimized (or revised if it is an existing site) according to this strategy, and in three to six months, you should have a good idea of how the strategy is working for you. Monthly reports can show you how many folks are visiting your site, where they come from, where they enter, and where they leave, as well as what they’re reading while they’re on your site. If you want to promote a new service, simply talk with your SEO team about your idea, and they can add the service to your SEO program.

There’s no need for American dentists to compete with dentists in Australia. A good, targeted SEO program will focus your website’s marketing toward the audience you want to target. Call TNT Dental today for more information: 877-868-4932.

Siberian Tiger at the Dentist

Administrator — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:05:23 +0000

In Mobile, Alabama, a zoo owner called the dentist when his Siberian tiger, Ana, broke two teeth and needed a root canal. Dr. Greg Sand responded to his human patient’s feline friend by performing the root canal – while Ana was under sedation, of course. See the video at MyFoxGulfCoast.com.

TVs Funniest Dental Visit Videos

Administrator — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:04:54 +0000

Check out YouTube’s dental visit videos – including skits with Tim Conway, Mr. Bean, and Al Bundy, here.

Nobel Boicare NobelActive(TM) Now Available

Administrator — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:04:09 +0000

Nobel Biocare NobelActive™ Now Available

This month, NobelActive became available for dental implant procedures following a pre-launch period and much scientific research. The new system offers high initial stability (even with compromised bone), bone condensing, redirecting capability, dual-function connection, and Platform Shifting™. See these resources at Nobel Biocare’s website:

Product Presentation
Clinical Videos
Clinical Case Photos
Technical Facts
Research & Clinical Studies
Pre-Launch

Medical Science: Bioactive Paper to Find and Destroy Pathogens

Administrator — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:49:03 +0000

Kill salmonella and SARS with paper? This strange idea could become reality. Scientists will share their concept at a conference in Espoo, Finland from June 24-26, 2008. Bioactive paper researchers hope to develop paper that does many things – including finding contaminants in water. Read more at http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/images/top2.jpg.

SOURCE: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/112161.php

Wilckodontics with Human Bone Grafting Accelerates Ortho for Dental Patients

Administrator — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:29:14 +0000

Periodontist Tom Wilcko developed Wilckodontics, a method of orthodontics that repositions teeth more quickly than traditional methods. The Wilckodontics website claims that patients can be “in and out of braces in 3 to 8 months.” The procedure, intended for adults with mature bone tissue, involves PAOO, Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics. In short, the jawbone is scored and a bone graft applied to the area. This softens bone to allow for accelerated movement of teeth into their ideal position. The entire procedure is done under local anesthetic and performed by an oral surgeon or periodontist. A recent University of Southern California School of Dentistry study shows that by using the patient’s bone for the graft, the potential for disease transmission is reduced. In the past, bovine bone tissue and bioactivated glass particles were used. You can review the report in Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry (May 2008) and visit www.Wilcodontics.com for more information.

Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080616115917.htm

FDA will Reclassify Amalgam in 2009

Administrator — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:53:22 +0000

In the battle over amalgam usage for dental fillings, the FDA has set a deadline to reclassify dental amalgam. By July 2009, the FDA plans to have a final decision on new classification. This change of heart and mind was brought about when a lawsuit against the FDA by Moms Against Amalgam was settled. The ADA released a statement that the organization supports the FDA’s decision and until a final reclassification is made, the ADA will stand firm on the position that dental amalgam is a safe and affordable solution for fillings. Read the ADA news post here.

Dental Websites that Work

Administrator — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:12:59 +0000

Have you ever been to a Website and felt like you’re being pummeled with information? Where do you begin? What do you click first? Long paragraphs, longer pages… Do you really have time for this? Do your patients?

When a guy sits down at a home computer to find a dentist, he is looking for a resource, not a novel. Once he finds a dentist he likes (based on factors like hours, financial policy, gallery pictures, location, and how the receptionist treats him on the phone), he may explore the site for information about procedures that interest him – like cosmetic dentistry or oral sedation. But in the beginning, the Website must incentivize the patient to make that initial call. An easy read and simple navigation will help.

A recent article at Slate.com, written by Michael Agger, reviews Jakob Nielsen’s report on the elements of a reader-friendly Website. With a humorous tone, Agger discusses what makes Web readers different from hobby readers. This is what today’s Internet reader wants:

Bullet points
Short sentences or fragments (studies show that readers skip long text)
Short paragraphs
Headings & subheadings (Internet readers scan pages for quick reference)
Links to other pages (they also have a short attention span)
Bold type (this is tricky with keywords)
Straightforwardness

Read the Slate.com article here.

Additionally, your Website shouldn’t be an encyclopedia – at least not on the surface. Nielsen says in his article, “Print vs. Online” (June 2008), “We should accept that the Web is too fast-paced for big-picture learning.” He adds, “At the same time, the Web is perfect for narrow, just-in-time learning of information nuggets…” He also says that Web readers want to build a personal experience by putting together the bits of information pertinent to them and their situation.

Read Nielsen’s article Print vs. Online here.

The rule of thumb for reading level is 8^th grade for newspaper, and according to Nielsen, the same holds true for Internet readers. Because of the vocabulary associated with dentistry, reading level for a dental site may be a bit higher, say 9^th or 10^th grade – particularly for specialists.

If you want to consult the experts in dental Website design, call TNT Dental at 877-868-4932 or visit TNT online here.

Dentists can “Wow” within Reason

Administrator — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:53:10 +0000

What makes your practice different? What makes patients want to come back? It’s a hot term in the industry, The Wow Effect or The Wow Factor. What is it? Dr. Joe Blaes, editor for Dental Economics and a renowned dental speaker and educator, wrote about Wow-ing patients in “Focus On: Equipment” in the May 2008 Dental Economics issue. His formula for a Wow experience is painless dentistry, plus empathy, plus “…all the little things to make patients more comfortable during any dental procedure.” Popular comfort amenities include personal music and movies or television in the operatory, dark sunglasses, blankets, pillows, and even warm towels and lip balm. In today’s economy, investing in a full-service “spa” dental practice may not be on your agenda. However, it’s the little things that count – and the little things cost less than the big things.

Some dentists have invested in relaxation rooms where patients can relax on a padded massage chair while listening to the sounds of a tranquil fountain. Scented candles – aromatherapy – flicker in the dim room, and plush green plants thrive in natural light streaming through a plate glass window. This pampering may seem over the top until you consider that other dentists offer paraffin hand and feet waxes, facial masks, and personal massages. You don’t have to go to these extremes to pamper patients, but by offering a warm, non-sterile waiting area, complete with water, tea, and coffee, and a few pleasures in the operatory, you may increase retention. This minimal investment shows your patients that you care about their comfort, just as you would if they were guests in your home.

Dentistry is about relationships. Relationships are built on personal investments. Investing in each person you care for could increase your bottom line, as well as the attitude and atmosphere in your practice. A little Wow will make your world a better place.

Read Dr. Blaes’ article and “The Dental Office as a Healing Environment” by Dr. Michael Kurtz at www.dentaleconomics.com.

Emmott on Computer Security

Larry Emmott — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:55:23 +0000

Is it possible to absolutely prevent anyone from ever, ever hacking into your computer? The answer is no. Is it possible to prevent someone from ever, ever breaking into your home or office, stealing your car or for that matter robbing the bank where you have deposited your valuables? Again the answer is no. What is possible is to use basic security measures that make it more difficult for a thief to break in and lower your risk.

Another factor is the value or attractiveness to thieves. If you are driving a brand new Ferrari you have more to protect than if you are putting around in a 1985 Yugo. As hard as it is to acknowledge our dental offices are not Ferraris to hackers. That would be a bank or department store. In the hacker world a dental office is a Yugo.

Security for your home or car starts with simply locking the doors. However, if you want to be more secure you can add on more systems. Such as more expensive locks, dead bolts, the club, burglar alarms, LoJack, bars on the windows, video monitors, metal detectors, roving Dobermans or 24 hour guards. Each system adds to the security but is also adds to the cost and hassle factor. There comes a point depending on your level of paranoia and tolerance for irritation where you say “enough already”.

It is the same with your computer and Internet access. You can simply start by locking the doors; that is using a password to logon. Next install a firewall and virus protection. For the vast majority of dental offices that is all you need.

To read more from Larry Emmott, visit his blog at www.emmottontechnology.com.

FDA Settles in Amalgam Case, ADA Responds

Administrator — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 12:46:28 +0000

The FDA came to a settlement with Moms Against Mercury in the lawsuit regarding dental amalgam fillings. The FDA’s new view, posted on their website, now reads: ” Dental amalgams contain mercury, which may have neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of developing children and fetuses. When amalgam fillings are placed in teeth or removed from teeth, they release mercury vapor. Mercury vapor is also released during chewing. FDA’s rulemaking (described in question 7) will examine evidence concerning whether release of mercury vapor can cause health problems, including neurological disorders, in children and fetuses.” Read the statement in its entirety at http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/amalgams.html.

The ADA responded by stating, “…the FDA has in no way changed its approach to, or position on, dental amalgam.” Furthermore, the reclassification proposal by the FDA won’t restrict amalgam use for any particular group of patients. The ADA supports classifying encapsulated amalgam and its parts into one category, and the organization still believes that dental amalgam is safe. According to the ADA, dental amalgam offers an affordable solution for cavity treatment. Read the ADA statement here:

http://ada.org/public/media/releases/0806_release01.asp.