Mesa, Arizona — DentiMax released an all-new 1.5 Open Sensor on April 17, 2024. In terms of size, image quality and price, DentiMax reports that this new digital x-ray sensor has exceeded their customers’ expectations and is based off years of feedback from dental clinicians. The Open Sensor already received high ratings from the independent testing organization, Clinician’s Report*, which stated that the DentiMax Open Sensor is “competitive with the best systems previously evaluated.” Upon reviewing this report, Chad Camac, DentiMax Vice President said, “Being ‘competitive wit ..read more

Class I furcation involvements are predictably treated through odontoplasty, in which the roof of the furcation is recontoured to eliminate the cul-de-sac that traps plaque in a vertical dimension.1,2 The newly established tooth contours must be carried onto the radicular surface to create a blended continuous morphology conducive to patient plaque control. In the course of odontoplasty, any cementoenamel ­projections are eliminated (Figure 1 through Figure 4). If the tooth was not already planned for restoration, elimination of Class I furcation involvements through odontoplasty does no ..read more

In April, the importance of early detection, education, and support is highlighted during Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Oral cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages, making it a dangerous silent threat. Statistics from the Oral Cancer Foundation reveal that in 2024 alone, around 58,500 Americans will be diagnosed, resulting in more than 8,000 deaths, with a 5-year survival rate of only 43%. Oral health professionals are urged to stay vigilant in screenings and patient education, as early detection significantly improves survival rates. A significant link has emerged between oral cancer ..read more

The oral microbiome plays a vital role in immune defense against pathogens such as COVID-19. A recent study by researchers from J. Craig Venter Institute, Ministry of Health in Kuwait, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Tufts School of Dental Medicine, and University of Alberta, explored this relationship. They found that individuals with a more diverse oral microbiome experience milder COVID-19 symptoms, while those with less diversity experience severe symptoms due to a dysregulated immune response. Analyzing saliva using artificial intelligence can predict COVID-19 presence and severity, o ..read more

Researchers have unveiled detailed images of rodent incisors, revealing the intricate structure of their enamel and its protective qualities. Contrary to previous beliefs, the orange-brown color of these teeth does not stem from iron-rich enamel but rather from a surface layer of aromatic amino acids and minerals. Through high-resolution imaging, scientists observed tiny pockets of iron-rich materials within the enamel, enhancing its acid resistance without affecting its hue. This breakthrough sheds light on the composition and formation of rodent tooth enamel, offering potential insights for ..read more

A Native American man, Keith Crow, who is incarcerated at Rush City Prison in Rush City, Minnesota, recently wrote an opinion piece decrying the lack of dental care. Despite constitutional mandates for medical care, inmates are left grappling with decaying teeth and abscesses without recourse to proper treatment. When Crow sought dental care at the health services office in the prison, he was treated by a dental assistant who explained that the institution had not had a dentist on staff in more than 3 years. She advised him to seek Tribal funding for dental care outside of the prison. Crow’s ..read more

Kansas recently became the sixth state to enter the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, facilitating license portability for oral health professionals. Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2453 into law on April 12, ushering in a new era of streamlined practice across participating states. The compact eliminates the need for professionals to obtain individual licenses in each state they wish to work in. Kansas’s inclusion means greater influence in shaping the rules and application process, as part of the founding states leading this initiative. Seven states must join the compact before i ..read more

Numerous authors have proposed furcation classification systems of various complexities.1-3 We use the following simplified classification system for periodontally involved mandibular furcations, as it offers the advantage of direct applicability with regard to predictable treatment options: Horizontal furcation involvement Class I: Entrance into the furcation proceeds less than half of the horizontal dimension of the tooth (Figure 1). Class II: Entrance into the furcation proceeds greater than half of the horizontal dimension of the tooth, but less than the full horizontal dimension ..read more

The National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) has approved model legislation aimed at enhancing the value patients receive from dental insurance plans. Backed by the American Dental Association (ADA), this legislation introduces a dental loss ratio (DLR), ensuring transparency by disclosing the portion of premiums allocated to patient care vs executive salaries and marketing costs. If the set percentage isn’t met, refunds to insured patients are mandated. This legislation aligns with the Affordable Care Act standards, emphasizing patient care over company profits. The ADA has partnere ..read more

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