perio reports are your team members indispensable? · interdental devices: brushes sunstar: gum...

Perio ReportsVol. 25, No. 12, page 16

December 2013

Are Your Team Members Indispensable?Profile in Oral Health, page 19

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DECEMBER 2013 » hygienetown.com1

townie choice awards 2013introduction

The 2013 Townie Choice AwardsThe Townie Choice Awards (TCAs) is Hygienetown Magazine’s

annual “Gear Guide” for the dental profession. We left the backpacksand bikes to popular outdoor magazines, however, and stuck to whatwe know: the best products and services of the dental profession.

With product and service choice overload, deciding on the rightfit for your practice can be grueling. For the last 11 years of the TCAs,thousands of Townies have voted for their favorite products and serv-ices in the dental profession. In doing so, Townies are helping theirpeers sift through the mediocre and go straight for the gold. If uti-lized, the TCAs serve as a compass showing the way to the dentalindustry product and service aces – as chosen by your colleagues, notindustry salesmen. Aren’t you more likely to try a product or serviceif you know it has been recommended by scores of colleagues youtrust? Us too!

So without further ado, we present you with HygienetownMagazine’s 2013 Townie Choice Award results!

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Anesthetics: TopicalsSultan Healthcare, Inc.: Topex

Topex Topical Anesthetics are local anesthetics that contain 20% Benzocaine for oral use. Theseproducts are available in a variety of patient-pleasing flavors such as cherry, mint and pina colada.Topex Topical Anesthetics are offered in multiple delivery methods including gel, liquid, unit-dose gel and a metered spray. Visit www.sultanhc.com for more information. (Votes: 124 of 739)

hygienetown.com « DECEMBER 20132

townie choice awards 2013anesthetics

SyringesHu-Friedy: Aspirating Anesthetic Syringe

Hu-Friedy’s Aspirating AnestheticSyringe is ergonomically designedwith proportional finger and thumbgrips, which increase control and addscomfort during aspiration whilereducing hand fatigue. Hu-Friedy’ssyringes are available in two styles, aType A and Type CW. For more infor-mation, visit www.hu-friedy.com.(Votes: 222 of 739)

Anesthetics: Local (Injected)Septodont: Septocaine

Septocaine is consistently the number-onebranded product in the U.S. Septocaine isindicated for local, infiltrative or conductiveanesthesia in both simple and complex dental procedures. It’s available in two formula-tions so you can decide which epinephrine concentration is right for the patient and theprocedure. For more information, call 800-872-8305. (Votes: 443 of 739)

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Anesthetics: Technique SystemDENTSPLY Maillefer: X-Tip Intraosseus Anesthetic Delivery System

The X-tip is a patented delivery device designed toquickly and easily deliver instant and profound anes-thesia. The unique guide sleeve makes intraosseousinjections simple. Comes in a starter set of 10 with aninstruction video or refill packs of 50. (Votes: 55 of 739)

Anesthetics 2

Cosmetic 3

Dental Hygiene 4

Infection Control 9

Periodontics 11

Practice Management 13

Radiology 15

Anesthetics

Our $1,000 winner is Phillip Zelmanow from Connecticut – otherwise known as “19th Century Doc”on the Dentaltown.com Message Boards. Congratulations Dr. Zelmanow!



townie choice awards 2013cosmetic

Laboratory: Veneer & High AestheticGlidewell Laboratories

Thank you, Townies, for your continued sup-port and vote of confidence! We appreciateyour business and will continue working hardto provide products and services that live upto your expectations. (Votes: 78 of 751)

Cosmetic Bleaching: In-Office SystemUltradent Products, Inc.: Opalescence Boost

Opalescence Boost PF 40% is Ultradent’s chemically acti-vated, in-office whitening product. Syringe-to-syringe mix-ing activates Opalescence Boost just prior to application,with no light required. It contains potassium nitrate and flu-oride to decrease sensitivity, and is applied directly to theteeth via convenient syringe delivery for two 20-minute applications. (Votes: 147 of 607)

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Cosmetic

Cosmetic Bleaching: Take-Home SystemUltradent Products, Inc.: Opalescence/Opalescence Treswhite Supreme

Opalescence is available in a carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide formula for superior whitening.The sticky and viscous consistency prevents the gel from leaching when placed. It’s combined with potassiumnitrate and fluoride for strengthening enamel, caries prevention, decreased sensitivity and is available in a vari-ety of concentrations, flavors and kit configurations to meet all whitening needs. (Votes: 298 of 751)



townie choice awards 2013dental hygiene

In-Office Topical Fluoride3M ESPE: Vanish 5% NaF White Varnish

Vanish 5% Sodium Fluoride WhiteVarnish from 3M ESPE contains aninnovative tri-calcium phosphate (TCP)technology that delivers fluoride, phos-phate and calcium, offering more pro-tection to the teeth and sensitivity relief.The varnish also stays fluid longer andcontinuously flows from treated tountreated areas that traditional varnishesmight miss. (Votes: 205 of 860)

Dental Floss: Floss ThreadersSunstar Americas, Inc.: GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders

GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders assist patients inthreading their favorite string floss throughspaces where most other products cannot reach:under bridges and implants, around orthodonticappliances and between connected crowns. (Votes: 266 of 864)

Dental Floss: CoatedProcter & Gamble: Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Clinical Protection Floss

Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Clinical ProtectionFloss is clinically proven to help reversegingivitis in two weeks as part of a com-prehensive dental health routine. Thisshred-resistant floss invigorates gums andslides up to 50 percent more easily in tightspaces versus the leading floss, while pro-tecting against cavities and bad breath.(Votes: 311 of 864)

In-Office Sensitivity Products (non-fluoride varnish)GC America, Inc.: MI Paste/MI Paste Plus

MI Paste and MI Paste Plus are the only professional products to contain Recaldent(CPP-ACP) technology, a special milk-derived protein that releases bio-available cal-cium, phosphate and fluoride (with MI PastePlus), when they are needed most to thetooth surfaces, plaque and surrounding softtissue. MI Paste and MI Paste Plus provides atopical coating for patients suffering fromsensitive teeth. MI Paste and MI Paste Plusare available in five delicious flavors – mint,strawberry, melon, tutti-frutti and vanilla.(Votes: 181 of 864)

Interdental Devices: BrushesSunstar: GUM Proxabrush

Available in a variety of sizes, theimproved GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners feature triangu-lar shaped bristles that remove upto 25 percent more plaque. Flexiblehandle provides better comfort andcontrol and bendable neck cleansposterior teeth easily. Coated wirehelps prevent galvanic shock andantibacterial bristles stay cleanbetween uses. (Votes: 264 of 864)

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Dental Hygiene

Dental Floss: Pre-strung FlossersProcter & Gamble: Oral-B Glide 3D White Floss Picks

Oral-B Glide 3D White Floss Picks help prevent surfacestains between teeth by removing plaque. (Votes: 120 of 864)



townie choice awards 2013dental hygiene continued from page 4

Mouthrinses: Alcohol FreeGlaxoSmithKline: Biotène Dry Mouth Mouthwash

Unlike some harsh mouth-washes that can leave patientswith a burning sensation, alco-hol-free Biotène Oral Rinsecleans gently while soothingminor irritation caused by drymouth. (Votes: 242 of 860)

Interdental Devices: Sticks/PiksSunstar Americas, Inc.: GUM Soft-Picks

Patented design features a tapered pick with 76 soft flexible bristles thatremoves plaque and massages gums. Soft-Picks, which were clinicallyproven to remove plaque between teeth and reduce gingivitis as effec-tively as string floss, are effective, convenient and great for on-the-gouse. Now available for wider spaces. (Votes: 288 of 859)

MouthrinsesJohnson & Johnson Healthcare Products: Listerine Antiseptic

Listerine kills the germs that cause bad breath, plaque and the gum disease, gingivitis. Listerine offers24-hour protection against plaque and gingivitis germs and has the American Dental Association(ADA) Seal of Acceptance for helping to prevent and reduce gingivitis and plaque. For more information,visit www.listerine.com. (Votes: 350 of 858)

Oral Cancer ScreeningDen-Mat Holdings, LLC: VELscope Vx

The VELscope Vx is used in combi-nation with traditional head and neckexams to detect abnormal mucosalareas that might not be visible to thenaked eye, including oral cancer andpremalignant dysplasia. For moreinformation, visit www.velscope.com.(Votes: 109 of 673)

Oral IrrigatorsWater Pik, Inc.: Water Flosser

The Waterpik Water Flosser is clinically proven to be aneffective alternative to traditional dental floss for removingplaque and reducing gingival bleeding and inflammation.The Waterpik Water Flosser removes plaque biofilm bothsubgingivally and interproximally, and massages and stim-ulates gingival tissue. (Votes: 306 of 645)

Pit & Fissure SealantsUltradent Products, Inc.: UltraSeal XT Plus

UltraSeal XT Plus is a light-cured, radiopaque, pit and fissure sealant, making itstronger and more wear-resistant. Because it is a 58 percent filled resin, UltraSealXT Plus has less polymerization shrinkage than competitive products. When usedin conjunction with Ultradent’s PrimaDry (the priming and drying agent),microleakage is virtually eliminated. (Votes: 256 of 864)




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Prescription Fluoride: Daily UseColgate-Palmolive Co.: PreviDent 5000 Booster/Dry Mouth/Sensitive (Rx)

The PreviDent 5000 line all contains 1.1% sodium fluoride. PreviDent 5000 Booster is for patients withmedium to high caries risk and orthodontic decalcification. PreviDent 5000 Sensitive is for patients with dentinhypersensitivity and/or root exposure. PreviDent 5000 Dry Mouth is for patients with high caries risk/rate dueto dry mouth. (Votes: 541 of 864)

Prophylaxis: HandpiecesDENTSPLY Professional: MIDWEST

Midwest RDH hygiene handpiece was designed with one specific goal in mind: a hygien-ist’s comfort. The lightweight, ergonomic design provides a balance of weight, equilibriumand size for reduced hand and wrist fatigue. A smooth finger-tip swivel provides free-flow-ing access, greater maneuverability and control and less paste splatter. (Votes: 288 of 859)

Prophylaxis: Prophy AnglesYoung Dental: Young Classic

The bend in the Contra prophy angle delivers easierposterior access, while also reducing fatigue by keepingthe wrist in a neutral position. The Classic, noted as themarket’s number-one disposable prophy angle, providesreliability and stability for a smooth performance.(Votes: 117 of 859)

Prophylaxis: Prophy PasteDENTSPLY Professional: NUPRO

The leading prophy paste, NUPROprovides everything you need forexcellent stain removal and pol-ishing. With a truly splatter-freeformula, it rinses cleanly and eas-ily. Choose from four grits and 10great tasting flavors with 1.23%fluoride ion. Select flavors are alsoavailable without fluoride. Visitwww.denstply.com. (Votes: 288 of 864)

Toothbrushes: ManualProcter & Gamble: Oral-B Manual Toothbrush

Oral-B, a leader in the brushing market, has pioneered many tech-nologies commonly seen today and continues to develop exceptionalproducts, like their newest manual – the Oral-B Pro-Health ClinicalPro-Flex Toothbrush with innovative flexing sides. It’s just one of thereasons Oral-B is the brand more dental professionals use.(Votes: 342 of 864)

Tongue CleanersPhilips Consumer Lifestyle: BreathRx

Odor-causing bacteria hide deep in thecrevices at the back of the tongue – theprime breeding spot for Gram-negativebacteria. BreathRx tongue cleaners liftthese bacteria and food debris off thetongue. Get your patients in the habit ofproper tongue hygiene care with BreathRXtongue cleaners. (Votes: 113 of 624)




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Toothpaste: DesensitizingGlaxoSmithKline: Sensodyne

Sensodyne Repair & Protect toothpaste builds a robust reparative layerover and within dentin tubules, with twice daily brushing. The layerbegins to form from the first use and provides proven, lasting protectionfrom dentin hypersensitivity. (Votes: 419 of 864)

Toothbrushes: PowerPhilips Consumer Lifestyle: Sonicare/Sonicare FlexCare

The Philips Sonicare Elite e9000 CustomCare System comes with two brush headsizes, allowing patients to reach posteriorteeth and interproximal spaces. The newcompact brush head is clinically proven toremove more plaque than the standardbrush head in posterior areas. Exclusiveoffer for dental professionals, visitwww.sonicare.com. (Votes: 506 of 864)

Xylitol ProductsXlear, Inc.: Spry 100% Xylitol-Sweetened Gums, Mints, Candies, Toothpaste & Mouthrinse

Research has shown reduced plaque and dental caries with three to five daily exposures to100 percent xylitol-sweetened products. Spry gums, mints and candies come in a varietyof flavors. Strive for five Spry xylitol exposures each day is the message from Xlear, Inc.For more information on the complete line of Spry Dental Defense Products by Xlear,visit www.xlear.com. (Votes: 184 of 659)

Xerstomia ProductsGlaxoSmithKline: Biotène OralBalance

Biotène OralBalance Gel provides instant and long-lasting dry mouth symptom relief, sooth-ing and protecting a dry mouth. The small, portable tube is easy and discreet to use.Biotène OralBalance Gel helps maintain the oral environment, soothing and protecting theoral tissues from minor irritations. (Votes: 422 of 864)

Toothpaste: WhiteningProcter & Gamble: Crest 3D White GlamorousWhite Toothpaste

Crest 3D White Glamorous WhiteToothpaste removes up to 90 per-cent of surface stains in just fivedays and shines to brighten in justone day! (Votes: 163 of 859)

ToothpasteColgate-Palmolive Co.: Colgate Total

Colgate Total is the only toothpaste that is FDA-approved (approved through the New DrugApplication process) and ADA-accepted to fightgingivitis. Colgate Total works better than ordinarynon-antibacterial toothpaste to help prevent andtreat gingivitis by providing 12-hour protection fromlive plaque bacteria. (Votes: 355 of 864)


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townie choice awards 2013infection control

Gloves: Powder-freeDASH Medical Gloves

Dash Medical Gloves makesnitrile gloves designed for peoplewho like the fit and feel of latex.Alasta Soft-Fit is one of the mostcomfortable nitrile gloves avail-able in the dental market today.Three styles to choose frominclude original blue, brilliantwhite and aloe vera-coated green.Visit www.dashmedical.com forsamples. (Votes: 59 of 742)

Gloves: LatexGlove Club

The Glove Club offers a comprehensiveline of high-quality gloves with uniquefeatures to meet the needs of the entireoffice. All Glove Club brand gloves havebeen designed specifically to address the concerns of health-care workers,such as latex sensitivity, powder levels,and inconsistent sizing and fit. Visitwww.gloveclub.com. (Votes: 47 of 742)

Presterilization: Ultrasonic UnitsColtène: BioSonic

BioSonic UC300 has a three-gallon-tank capacity, with multiplebasket and beaker arrangements, adjustable basket dividers forsorting instruments and racks to accommodate popular cassettesystems. The unique design of the bezel and lid reduces noiselevels for quiet operation and also limits airborne contaminates,providing a quiet and safe working environment. Visitwww.coltenewhaledent.com. (Votes: 261 of 742)

Protective EyewearCrosstex International: Face Shield

This optically clear, distortion-free wrap-around face shield protectsmask and face from direct splatter. Its sonically welded elastic headbandprovides comfort as its 1.5in foam headband “floats” lightly on the fore-head, with no pressure on the temples and vented for increased airflow.Anti-fog treatment on inside and outside of shield. Visit Crosstex.comfor additional information. (Votes: 60 of 742)


Infection Control

Masks3M ESPE

3M ESPE offers dental pro-fessionals a complete line ofpremium quality, comfortableface masks. These include itsmost popular Molded FaceMasks, the Triple Layer MoldedFace Masks, Ear Loop FaceMasks and Tie-On Face Masks.(Votes: 175 of 742)

Gloves: Non-latexPro2 Solutions, Inc.: Cranberry Contour/Contour Plus Nitrile/Xlim Nitrile

Contour Plus Powder-Free Nitrile gloves aremicro-coated with our proprietary lanolinand vitamin E coating. This helps signifi-cantly reduce itchiness and cracking of skin.Xlim provides an optimal grip in wet envi-ronment, while Contour offers superior tac-tile sensitivity. Visit www.cranberryusa.comfor more information. (Votes: 70 of 742)


http://crosstex.com


townie choice awards 2013infection control

SterilizersMidmark

The Midmark family of sterilizers is an all-inclusive solution for your sterilization needs.Combine the capacity of the Midmark M11and M9 UltraClave Automatic Sterilizerswith the simplicity and speed of the M3UltraFast to create the most efficient work-flow for your office. (Votes: 283 of 742)

Sterilization PouchesDUX Dental: PeelVue+

DUX Dental’s complete line of PeelVue+ Sterilization Pouches offers not only the high-est quality dental pouch, but also features the patented Internal Processing Indicator (IPI)and patent-pending Closure Validators. Available in 13 sizes, PeelVue+ Pouches are agreat choice for your office. (Votes: 103 of 742)

Surface DisinfectantsKerr TotalCare: CaviCide Spray/CaviWipes

CaviCide and CaviWipes are tuberculocidal,bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal surfacedisinfectants. CaviCide is ideal for dentaloperatories, instrument-processing roomsand dental labs. Also effective against HIV,HBV and HCV and a reliable means of preventing cross contamination. For moreinformation, visit www.kerrtotalcare.com.(Votes: 233 of 742)

Unit Waterline TreatmentsA-dec: ICX

Backed by more than 40 years of infection control innovation,A-dec ICX is dentistry’s proven approach to maintain thehealthy and efficient care of your dental unit water and equip-ment, while recognizing the imperative of patient safety. Learnmore at a-dec.com/ICX or by calling 800-547-1883. (Votes: 119 of 742)

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http://a-dec.com/icx


townie choice awards 2013periodontics continued from page 10

Periodontics

Periodontal ChartingHenry Schein Practice Solutions:Dentrix

The Dentrix Perio Chart is just ascomprehensive as the Clinical Chart,recording mobility, furcation grades,probing depths, bleeding and suppu-ration points, gingival margins,plaque, bone loss, automatically cal-culating CAL levels and recording theattached gingiva. (Votes: 206 of 779)

Instrument Sharpening DevicesHu-Friedy: Sidekick Sharpener

Hu-Friedy’s Sidekick Sharpener helpsyou maintain sharper instrumentswith less effort. Our easy-to-useGuide Channels and Vertical Backstopguide you and your scaler to sharp,consistent results time after time.This routine maintenance will actu-ally extend the life of your instru-ments and protect your investment.The Sidekick is compact, cordlessand requires minimal counter space.(Votes: 124 of 779)

Hand Instruments:Curettes & ScalersHu-Friedy

Hu-Friedy’s Nevi 4 posteriorsickle scaler features tapered,dual- cutting blades that pro-vide effective removal of bur-nished, heavy and tenaciousdeposits and precise accessfor effective deposit removal– made with revolutionaryEverEdge technology, whichallows the edge to staysharper longer. Increasedshank rigidity provides pow-erfully effective stokes withless effort and fatigue for theclinician. (Votes: 469 of 779)

Antioxidants/NutraceuticalsSpace Maintainers Lab: Perio Protect

Perio Protect is the most patient-friendly, non-invasive, affordable treatment for periodontalinfection available today. The patented PerioProtect Tray (dentist-prescribed and custom-made in an FDA-registered lab) directsantimicrobial agents into the gingival sulcusto overcome crevicular flow and deliverproven medication to the source of the infec-tion – and keeps it there long enough to killthe bacteria. Continued daily use of themethod ensuresthat the diseasedoes not return.(Votes 40 of 502)

Periodontal Adjunctive TherapiesOraPharma, Inc.: ARESTIN (Minocycline Hydrochloride) Microspheres, 1mg.

ARESTIN (minocycline hydrochloride) Microspheres,1mg. is indicated as an adjunct to scaling and root planingprocedures for reduction of pocket depth in patients with adultperiodontitis. ARESTIN may be used as part of a periodontal mainte-nance program which includes good oral hygiene, scaling and root planing.(Votes: 359 of 779)

Periodontal ProbesHu-Friedy: Colorvue

Hu-Friedy’s Colorvue Probe provides faster and more consistentresults. The vivid yellow tip and black markings provide

increased intra-oral visibility and instant readability. The flexible,rounded tip is safe for use around implants and ensures greater

patient comfort and acceptability. The convenient twist-ondesign allows you to use the clinician-friendly ergonomic

handle to easily replace worn tips. (Votes: 182 of 779)



townie choice awards 2013periodontics


Power ScalersDENTSPLY Professional: Cavitron

For dental professionals striving for greater comfort and control, onlyCavitron systems deliver Tap-On Technology – the next big step inultrasonic scaling. Ergonomically designed for improved hygienistcomfort, enhanced efficiency plus all of the benefits you have come toexpect from Cavitron. (Votes: 348 of 779)

Power Scalers: Tips/InsertsDENTSPLY Professional: Cavitron

For hygienists who strive for efficiency, comfort and performance, Cavitron family ofinserts work together to deliver the highest standard in ultrasonic scaling. They havea comprehensive line of ultrasonic scaling inserts designed to best serve you, yourpatients, and your practice. (Votes: 284 of 779)

TownieMeeting.comDiscount excludes exhibitors; prices good through December 31, 2013. Confirmation will be sent via e-mail.

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townie choice awards 2013practice management continued from page 12

Internet Marketing & Web ServicesDemandforce

Demandforce, a leading online marketingand communication software service, helpsdentists thrive in the Internet economyusing e-mail communications, text messag-ing and online services. Demandforcecombines an award-winning communica-tion platform with best-in-class reputationand networking tools into one powerfulweb-based application that seamlessly inte-grates with existing practice managementsystems. For more information, please visitwww.demandforce.com. (Votes: 386 of 1,136)

Equipment & Practice FinanceBank of America Practice Solutions

For almost 20 years, Bank of America PracticeSolutions has served the needs of dentists byoffering financial products and services to the dental community. Whether you owna practice or are just getting started, Bank of America Practice Solutions can providecustomized financial solutions to fit your needs. (Votes: 141 of 910)

Dental MarketingDemandforce

Demandforce, a leading online marketing and communication software service, helpsdentists thrive in the Internet economy using e-mail communications, text messagingand online services. Demandforce combines an award-winning communication platformwith best-in-class reputation and networking tools into one powerful web-based applica-tion to help build practices’ a strong online reputation and leverage local network mar-keting. For more information, please visit www.demandforce.com. (Votes: 403 of 1,136)

Consultants & AdvisorsJay Geier’s Scheduling Institute

For more than 18 years the SchedulingInstitute has been considered the orig-inal new patient generation experts.Today they are a veritable force withinthe practice management consultingfield, serving dentists worldwide. Ifyou are ready to amplify your practiceand your life, call 855-314-1344. (Votes: 225 of 930)

Patient FinanceCareCredit

A big thank you to all Townies for againchoosing CareCredit as your preferred patient financing program. As our way ofsaying “thank you,” Townies who have yet to add CareCredit can call 800-300-3046x4519 for a special get-started offer. If you already offer CareCredit, call 800-859-9975 to get your free custom practice performance review. (Votes: 797 of 1,136)

Software: Patient Communication SystemsDemandforce

Demandforce, a leading online marketing and communication software service,helps dentists thrive in the Internet economy using email communications, textmessaging and online services. Demandforce combines an award winning commu-nication platform with best-in-class reputation and networking tools into one pow-erful web-based application that seamlessly integrates with existing practicemanagement systems. Visit www.demandforce.com. (Votes: 452 of 1,388)

Practice Management



townie choice awards 2013practice management

Software: Patient EducationPatterson Dental: CAESY Education Systems

CAESY Patient Education Systemsfrom Patterson Dental provides userswith access to more than 350 multi-media patient education presentationsthat explain procedures to patients andincrease case acceptance. All videos areavailable via the cloud, allowing usersto access from multiple locations.(Votes: 280 of 1,388)

Software: Practice ManagementHenry Schein Practice Solutions: Dentrix

Henry Schein Dentrix has 33,000 practices currentlyusing the system to grow their practice. Award-winning tools provide superior charting capabilities,improved productivity and superior imaging connec-tivity. Dentrix is what you need to build your digitaldental office. (Votes: 476 of 1,388)


Software: Practice Management EnhancementsHenry Schein Practice Solutions: Dentrix Mobile

Dentrix Mobile makes sure you’re never more thana touch or tap away from the crucial informationthat powers your practice – with fast, secure accessto patient details, appointments, medical alertsand prescriptions from many smartphones and tablet devices. (Votes: 165 of 1,388)


X-Ray Equipment: Digital Image Management SoftwareDEXIS, LLC: DEXIS Digital Imaging Software

The innovative DEXIS Imaging Suite combines the imagemanagement capabilities of the award-winning DEXIS 9with a solid base for growth for applications such as the newcompanion iPad app, DEXISgo that provides a sleek, engag-ing new way for dental profes-sionals to communicatewith patients.(Votes: 252 of 864)


townie choice awards 2013radiology continued from page 14

X-Ray Equipment: Digital X-Ray SensorsDEXIS, LLC: DEXIS Intra-oral Sensors

Building on a continued history of award-winning single-sized sensor design, theDEXIS Platinum Sensor combinesPureImage technology for clear images,TrueComfort ergonomics for patientcomfort and fast, direct USB connectivityfor a positive radiographic experience.(Votes: 63 of 213)

X-Ray Equipment: Conebeam CT Scanner Sirona Dental Systems: Galileos

The high-end CBCT unit with HD mode,large field-of-view and integrated FaceScanoffers maxillofacial surgeons, orthodon-tists, radiologists, general dentists and ENTdoctors all the options they need for diag-nosis, treatment and patient consultation.Its ease of use, wide range of functionalityand HD imaging capabilities make theSirona Galileos Comfort Plus perfect foryour practice. (Votes: 35 of 372)

X-Ray Equipment: 3D Imaging SoftwareAnatomage, Inc.: Invivo5 3D Imaging Software

Invivo5 3D imaging software is a comprehensive 3D treatment planning software.With Invivo5, doctors can treatment plan implants and restorations directly ontotheir CBCT scans and order custom surgical guides. Advanced applications are avail-able for orthodontics as well, including full 3D cephalometrics, digital study modelsand treatment predictions. (Votes: 21 of 403)

X-Ray Equipment: Panoramic/CephalometricMachines (Digital)Gendex Dental Systems: Gendex GXDP-300/GXDP-700

There’s always a Gendex extra-oralsystem that is right for you! TheGXDP-700 is a modular system,upgradable from 2D to 3D conebeam with flexible field-of-view, orboth. The GXDP-300 digital panincorporates the most-used imagingmodes, a simple three-step acquisi-tion process and a compact design.(Votes: 75 of 675)

X-Ray Equipment: Intra-oral MachinesGendex Dental Systems: Gendex GX-770, expert DC, 765DC

The first of Gendex’s DC intra-oral units,the 765 DC, has the smallest focal spotavailable for maximum resolution, DCoutput for consistent results andQuickset tubehead controls. Followingthe 765 DC’s reputation of dependabletechnology, Gendex now offers its succes-sor, the expert DC. (Votes: 166 of 672)

Radiology



hygienetownperio reports

More children today have allergies than ever before. The“Hygiene Hypothesis” suggests that children living incrowded housing, being part of large families, having earlycontact with pets or farm animals and early exposure tomicrobes in food have a reduced risk of developing allergies.In the Western world today, parents are more concernedthan parents in the past with protecting their children fromgerms. This overprotection and fear of microbes may beresponsible for allergy levels increasing to one in three chil-dren in affluent countries.

Infants are exposed to the oral microflora of their parentsthrough kissing, sharing the feeding spoon and by the par-ent putting the pacifier in his or her mouth after it falls on

the floor before giving it back to the infant. This sharing of oral flora may be helpful in protecting the child fromallergies, asthma and eczema. Researchers in Sweden tooksaliva samples from nearly 200 four-month-old infants todetermine the microbiota. The children were evaluated forallergies at 18 and 36 months of age. Medical histories weretaken from the parents as well.

Babies born vaginally and whose parents cleaned thepacifier in their mouths before giving it the child were lesslikely to have allergies, asthma and eczema. The microbialflora found in the saliva of babies whose parents cleaned thepacifier in their own mouths differed from children whoseparents rinsed the pacifier off with tap water or cleaned it in

boiling water. Transfer of microbes fromthe parent to the child may trigger a protec-tive immune response in the child. n

Hesselmar, B., Sjöberg, F., Saalman, R., Åberg, N., Adlerberth, I., Wold, A.:

Pacifier Cleaning Practices and Risk of Allergy Development. Pediatrics orig-

inally published online May 6, 2013.

Early Childhood Caries May Actually be Triggered by Enamel Hypoplasia

The first 1,000 days in the life of a child, from concep-tion to two years of age are critical in determining healthprospects for life. Events happening to the mother duringpregnancy will have an impact on developing cells of thefetus. Ameloblasts lay down enamel in eight day cycles, lay-ing down cells for seven days and resting on the eighth day.This pattern can be seen within the enamel layers when analyzed microscopically. Also visible is the date of birth inneonatal lines in both dentin and enamel. Changes withinthe various layers of enamel tell the story of the child, muchlike rings in a tree trunk provide evidence of various stressorsencountered during a lifecycle. In this case, it’s the life cycleof the deciduous tooth.

Stressors on the mother that can inhibit ameloblasticfunction include malnutrition, smoking, celiac disease, infec-tion, fever or other systemic conditions. Early childhood

caries occurs around two yearsof age in normally calcifiedenamel and earlier in childrenwith hypoplastic enamel.These children show earlierand greater Strep mutan colo-nization, probably due to thedefects in the enamel provid-ing an ideal place for bacterialcolonization. Add to this a high carbohydrate, cariogenic dietand you have hypoplasia-assisted severe early childhoodcaries (HASECC).

The “frown” line of enamel hypoplasia reflects the exacttime teeth were developing when the mother experienced asignificant stress. This would be considered a birth defect inthe enamel by the March of Dimes. n

Cauflield, P., Li, Y., Bromage, T.: Hypoplasia-associated Severe Early Childhood Caries – A Proposed Definition. J Dent Res 91:(16)544-550, 2012.

Perio Reports Vol. 25, No. 12Departing from our usual research summaries, this month we present sum-maries of key presentations at the IADR World Oral Health Congress in Budapest,October 9-12, 2013.

Pacifier Cleaning by Parents has Benefit for the Child

www.hygienetown.com t


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Mother’s Beliefs Impact Children’s Oral Health

Researchers from the University of Otago, inDunedin, New Zealand, visited Ajman in the UnitedArab Emirates to evaluate the caries levels in five- to six-year-old children. Boys had more caries than girls andthe children of well-educated mothers had lower cariesrates than children of mothers with less education.

In a group of more than a thousand children, 76 per-cent had at least one decayed, missing or filled tooth andthe boys had more caries than the girls. In this case, cul-tural differences impacted the caries rates of the children.To the mothers, the boys are treated like princes andoverindulged with sweets. Mothers believe the sweettreats are good for their children and it shows their lovefor their children. The same is not true for daughters.

In another study conducted in Dunedin, NewZealand, children born in 1972 and 1973 have beenfollowed since birth with many medical and dentalevaluations. At the start of the study, mothers ratedtheir own oral health on a five-point scale from excel-lent to very poor. When evaluated at age five, themothers’ self-evaluations of oral health predicted theirchildren’s oral health.

Recently, 95 percent of those still alive were evaluatedand the mother’s oral health predictions were even betterpredictors of their child’s oral health at age 32 and 38.Many things impact oral health. In many cases the focusis on plaque, oral hygiene and sugar consumption. Thisstudy shows the significant impact personal beliefs heldby the mother can have on the oral health of children. n

Hashim, R., Williams, Sl, Thomson, W.: Oral Hygiene and Dental Caries in 5- to 6-year-Old

Children in Ajman, United Arab Emirates. Int J Dent Hyg 11(3):208-215, 2013.

Targeting Populations or Individuals at Risk

Fluoride can be compared to a seat belt – easy to use,required by everyone even though only a small percentageof those using one will actually be involved in an accidentwhere the seat belt is needed. Fluoride is easy to use andoften provided community-wide in water, salt or milk.When evaluating prevention programs, all successful pro-grams include fluoride in some form.

The toothbrush is a delivery system for fluoride tooth-paste, more than for plaque removal. The highest level ofscientific evidence is with fluoride toothpaste of at least1,000ppm used twice daily. When asked why not focus ondiet and sugar consumption, it was said that a single dietintervention doesn’t actually result in reduced sugar intake.

Researchers in Sweden realized that one specific areawithin the suburbs of Malmo was inhabited by a widevariety of immigrants with as many as 50 different lan-guages. Perhaps because of lack of education or bad den-tal experiences in their home countries, these families didnot take advantage of the free dental care available. In thisarea, 85 percent of three year olds had dental caries, com-pared to 30 percent in surrounding areas. Researcherstook the clinic to the neighborhood and created a non-threatening center called Toothbrush where dental assis-tants saw each child four times per year for toothbrushinginstructions and discussions about diet and dental disease.The children brushed with fluoride toothpaste or tookfluoride tablets. Three years later the caries rate was signif-icantly reduced. n

Wennhall I, Mårtensson E-M, Sjunnesson I, Matsson L, Schröder U, Twetman S. Caries-preventive

Effect of an Oral Health Program for Preschool Children in a Low Socioeconomic, Multicultural Area

in Sweden: Results after One Year. Acta Odontol Scand. Jun;63(3):163-167, 2005.





Following children from five years of age to 40years of age, the caries experience is always on theupswing. The increase is low for about 40 percent ofthe people while the middle of the upswing affectsabout 45 percent and the last 15 percent is on thehighest trajectory.

Despite a variety of fluoride sources, dentalcaries is still a serious problem impacting a signifi-cant portion of the population. There is a smallsegment of the population for whom traditionalprevention is effective and they have no dental dis-ease. For some, it might possibly be effective andfor the rest, traditional prevention is not effective inpreventing dental disease.

Researchers in Denmark wanted to see what theeffect of simply toothbrushing would be. Childrenwere seen frequently in the dental office for profes-sional toothbrushing. Nothing else was used, justtoothbrushing: no fluoride toothpaste, no pit and fis-sure sealants, nothing but toothbrushing. This group

was compared over a several-year period to a controlgroup receiving traditional prevention and dentalcare. The toothbrushing group experienced fewer surfaces of decay compared to the control group.Comparing time spent in the dental office, it wasalmost the same for both groups, one receiving tooth-brushing and the other more restorative care. Thebiggest difference between the groups was the amountof money earned by the dentist. Significantly moremoney was earned by repairing decayed services thanby preventing the carious lesions with professionaltoothbrushing. It is an effective preventive model, butnot one that is likely to be adopted by dentists any-time soon. n

Ekstrand, K., Christiansen, M.: Outcomes of a Non-operative Caries Treatment Programme

for Children and Adolescents. Caries Res 39: 455-467, 2005.

Prevention Beyond Fluoride

Oral Cancer – Still a Serious Problem

Oral cancer is on the rise and remains a deadly diseasewith a five-year survival rate at approximately 50 percent.The major risk factors are tobacco, alcohol, betel quid andHPV virus. Awareness of oral cancer is particularly low inmany third-world countries and also in Europe where thehighest rate is found in Hungary and northern France. Thesefigures are due to the high incidence of tobacco use in thesecountries. Those living at a low socio-economic level are alsoat higher risk for oral cancer.

Public awareness of oral cancer is very low, with 50 per-cent of people in areas of risk not knowing about oral cancer.In Hungary, 48 percent are not aware of oral cancer. In thepast 10 years in the UK, oral cancer incidence increased 35percent. This is due in part to changing demographics asmany more young people are affected in particular by oralpharyngeal cancer.

Early screening is considered the answer to cutting thetime between detection and treatment, this despite the lack

of research showing that screening in high risk populationsresults in fewer deaths. Cuba has a screening system imple-mented at the primary health-care level with physicians,which has led to a high cure rate. However, primary carephysicians are not trained to recognize oral cancer, so addi-tional training is needed to teach the steps in a visual examand palpation of the head and neck.

Similar to the Great American Smoke Out, held eachyear on the third Thursday of November, colleagues inthe UK have adopted a blue ribbon Mouth CancerAction Month for a full month of activities focused ontobacco cessation. Ireland, Spain and Portugal also adoptedthis program. n

Warnakulasuriya, S. Kings College, London. Resources: http://www.oralcancerldv.org/en/



hygienetownprofile in oral health

by Sarah Cottingham, RDH


In a perfect world, each team member is indispensable andthe practice runs smoothly, but in the real world, team membersmight not feel indispensable and there can be peaks and valleysof emotion to deal with. Some of the peaks are extremely highand some of the valleys are extremely low.

The relationship between the dentist and team memberssometimes becomes adversarial. This might be due to a lack ofdiscussion about the actual business aspects of the practice. Acommon bone of contention is often related to compensation.Team members can become angry when routine raises are notgiven, yet they feel they are entitled and have earned a raise.Other complaints from hygienists, for example, deal with equip-ment and instruments not provided and paid for by the boss.These types of situations put a wrench in the gears of themachine called productivity and profitability. When team members’ expectations are not met and employees feel they areworking extremely hard, increased productivity can actually beviewed as a negative.

Comments from team members might sound like this: “Thebusiness does better and we produce more and for what?”Consider that many team members might not understand theactual starting point of the practice. There is no understandingof the cost of doing business or how to actually impact the busi-ness. When they see the production going up, they assume itmeans they should make more money as well. Without under-standing the business side, team members have no idea that thepractice might be coming out of a deep financial hole or howlarge the staff compensation percentage is for the practice.

When team members actually understand the businessmodel in its entirety, they have a tendency to take more owner-ship of the practice and their particular department and thefinancial results. The focus of this conversation is on the hygiene

department, yet these concepts can be applied to the entire busi-ness and other team members as well.

Dental hygienists are oral health professionals trained to rec-ognize and prevent caries and periodontal disease and providenon-surgical periodontal therapy when periodontal disease ispresent. In the majority of dental hygiene schools, little to nofocus is placed on the relationship between optimal oral healthand the restorative needs of the patient. Also missing from den-tal hygiene education is the cost of doing business within theentire dental practice. Hygienists can be remarkable partnerswho contribute significantly to the profitability of the businesswhen they understand both the big picture and the details. It iswhen they get caught up in the details of the hygiene appoint-ment and don’t see the big picture that there are problems.Encourage the hygienist to become familiar with both thedetails and the big picture. This will ensure the dental hygienedepartment is not only busy but profitable as well.

In the most successful dental practice models, dental hygien-ists are responsible for tracking their personal impact on thepractice as well as the costs to operate the dental hygiene depart-ment within the business. Critical items to track daily include:

• Production (excludes exams and products)• Hours available for patient appointments – total of hours

that the provider should have worked today• Hours scheduled with patients at the start of each day –

hours that were actually booked with patients at the startof the day, before messages are checked

• Hours of cancellations and no-shows – hours of patientcare were cancellations or no shows

• Hours of recovered time – any open time in the hygieneschedule that was filled with a patient during the day’sschedule

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• Patient visits – total number of patients that day• Co-diagnosed treatment identified – potential treatment

discussed prior to the dentist entering the operatory, usingintra-oral photos and radiographs

• Co-diagnosed treatment scheduled – of the treatmentidentified, those actually scheduled

• Pre-appointed visits – the number of hygiene patientsseen who walked out with another hygiene appoint-ment scheduled

• Total number for each dental hygiene service provided –total number of each service (code) provided during theday (Example: periodontal maintenance=2, adult pro-phy=4, local SRP=2)

At the end of each month the management team reviewsthe data accumulated. The team generally consists of the doc-tor, office manager and lead hygienist if there is more than one.The production and collection numbers are reviewed as well asthe percentages from the profit and loss statement. The idealpercentages are reviewed in relationship to the actual percent-ages achieved.

The profit is used to fund the investment and securityaccount. It is an eye-opening experience when team membershear for the first time that the staff compensation, for example,is at 38 percent of the net collection when it should be 20-25percent. Of course the team initially interprets that to meansomeone is going to lose their job or get a pay cut and they mustbe immediately redirected to realize how they can impact thisnumber. They can impact the number with more productionfollowed by more collections!

Dental hygienists are the liaisons between the dentist andthe restorative and cosmetic treatment plan. They set the stagefor the conversation the dentist will have with the patient dur-ing the exam. In many exchanges with patients, the dentist is lefton his/her own to identify, uncover, review, diagnose, educate,

enroll, close a case and in some cases, talk about the money too!This is where an indispensable hygienist can make the differ-ence. The hygienist has more time with each patient than othersin the office. Patients scheduled for hygiene services are a captiveaudience for 50-60 minutes. Contemplate these aspects of thehygiene visit.

• How quickly is the hygienist developing a relationshipwith the patient?

• What is the theme of the exchange of information thatoccurs in the operatory?

•• Is the conversation driven by sharing personal infor-mation and interaction?

•• Is the conversation driven by health-related infor-mation that inspires and motivates patients to makedecisions about optimal oral health?

• Is the hygienist educating the patients using intra-oralphotos?

• Is the hygienist completing a comprehensive periodontalassessment or does she/he only chart localized pocketing?

• Is the hygienist checking occlusal relationships? • Is the hygienist forecasting future breakdown of dentistry

(the work that is currently barely serviceable) or are theytalking about the one tooth that needs to be fixed?

• What tolerance does the practice have for periodontal dis-ease? What bleeding is acceptable during a prophy beforea different approach is taken?

• Is the hygienist educated on the impact of pH on overalloral health?

• Is the hygienist spending time reviewing the periodontalcharting and intra-oral photos?

• During the appointment, is there value being developedfor future appointments, using language that inspirescommitment to keeping it?

• Is the tracking of the hygiene department viewed as animperative of the business or just another task that mustbe completed?

Setting the stage for what to expect pre-frames the patientfor what is coming next. Pre-framing is getting a person to aplace mentally, prior to actually going there. When this occurswith the hygienist, it leads to success for the entire practice. Theprocess of pre-framing and in many cases re-framing old beliefswill make the difference that inspires patients to accept highquality dentistry. This is the critical step that makes the dentalhygienist indispensable to the practice; count on your hygienistto be the difference maker!

Helping your team to become indispensable to the prac-tice is to create a business owner mindset and share withthem the business aspects of the practice as they relate to thebig picture. If you have not laid out the map of how thepractice runs and you only attempt to get through the day,the results will continually be haphazard and life will bechaotic. Take action now by considering these actions steps:


Monthly Data»

1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.

Staff Compensation: (20-25 percent)

Occupancy: (6 percent)

Human and Physical Resources (5 percent)

Supplies (4-5 percent)

Marketing (2 percent)

Laboratory (10 percent)

Administrative Services (6 percent)

Doctors’ Salaries and Dividends (24 percent)

Total Overhead Expense = 56 percent

Total Doctor Salary = 24 percent

Profit = 20 percent




• Regular weekly meetings• Daily morning focus meetings • De-brief meetings • Clarifying the SMART goals (Specific, Measurable,

Attainable, Relevant, Timeline)• Review and correctBy merely starting with the plan and inspiring an owner

mindset, the barriers that once held the practice back will bedismantled and growth is inevitable. Take the step to sched-ule the team meeting and ask each team member whatmakes them indispensable and see what marks you hit. Youmight be surprised at what you will hear. Take the time tocreate those champions that will take it to thenext level.

The actions and perceptions mentioned are business-drivenactivities that will make the dental hygienist indispensable to thepractice. When the hygienist can track the actual differenceshe/he makes to the bottom line of the entire practice, it is likelythey will want to play a bigger game. When the hygienist playsa bigger game, it may warrant an increase in salary. Financialreward is one reason team members play the big game. Themore important reason is they realize that they have made animpact not only on the patients’ health, but also the financialhealth of the practice as well. Encouraging the hygienist to trackthe difference they make will make all the difference in theworld to your practice. n

To comment on this article, visit Hygienetown.com/magazine.aspx.

Author’s Bio

Sarah Cottingham is the owner of BCS Leadership, LLC, a practice management and consulting firm where she and her team work side-by-side all types of practice models and see first-hand the results of each. They have found that developing relationships as a business ownerto a business owner; results in exponentially higher productivity and profitability. Sarah has two decades of dental hygiene experience, includ-ing conventional dental hygiene, assisted dental hygiene, working within a periodontal practice while using technologies such as the Perioscope, diodelasers and the Velscope. She is also one of the founders of O’Hehir University, an international online educational option for licensed/registered RDHs tocomplete their BS Degree in Oral Health Promotion. Sarah lives with her husband and two sons in Phoenix, Arizona.


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