HEROES OF THE PRACTICE: Dps Evaluators Name Their Go-To Products

 

In every profession, the behind-the-scenes work determines the quality of the final product. Newscasters depend on the most accurate, up-todate research to convey leading stories. Performers need a proper set and equipment—instruments, microphones, props, a stage—to deliver entertainment. Similarly, dentists across the country look to peer-to-peer product reviews, such as Dental Product Shopper evaluations, before they purchase new dental tools to aid in providing patient care.

Many clinicians go by the don’t-fix-what-isn’t-broken rule and stick with the same product—that is, unless something malfunctions. Yet, because the dental field is constantly evolving, new technologies and advancements on the market have the potential to drastically improve certain aspects of your work—and, therefore, may be worth the investment. It’s important to conduct thorough research to avoid making a purchase that doesn’t live up to its expectations.

Fortunately, DPS evaluators take care of that research by testing and reviewing products, from impression materials and cements to curing lights and lasers. If something works exceptionally well—better yet, if a product solves a common clinical problem or inconvenience—they want to let their peers know.

“It’s exciting and fun to try new products that can help make the day run smoother,” said Dr. Tiffany Lee, who practices in Torrance, CA. “As clinicians, we get used to using the same materials and doing things in a systematic method. Being a DPS evaluator allows us to do business as usual with the addition of expanding our experiences by trying new products.”

Dr. Lee said she enjoys reading about her peers’ real-life experiences with products before making a purchase, especially experiences that closely align with her practice style. Likewise, Nathaniel Behrents, DDS, implements products into his practice only if they positively impact his work. “I strive to be as current as possible for my patients, and evaluating products for DPS allows me to constantly improve my treatment by trying new products before buying them,” he explained.

Jenna Hebert, a practicing hygienist for 20 years, agreed. “As an evaluator, I appreciate the time that goes into the process and the honesty it takes to give an accurate assessment of the product. I trust my colleagues’ opinions, and it’s helpful to make purchase decisions based on their feedback.”

Valuing the evaluators' collective opinions, we surveyed nearly 500 of them regarding their favorite products within their preventive, restorative, and cosmetic workflows, as well as in various technologies. Here, we present the evaluators' top 3 choices in each category. Perhaps the evaluators' go-to products would also make a difference in your practice.


COSMETIC
TAKE-HOME WHITENING
No treatment plan is one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to whitening. Our evaluators’ picks for take-home whitening treatments offer gels in multiple concentrations for patient customization from every angle.

From Ultradent, Opalescence PF offers a carbamide peroxide formulation that contains potassium nitrate and fluoride in 5 concentrations—making it easy to tailor to a patient’s needs. Whitening gel delivered in customized take-home trays contains 20% water to prevent dehydration and shade relapse. For dramatic results in as little as 15 minutes of wear time a day, Ultradent’s Opalescence Go features prefilled, disposable UltraFit trays that warm with a patient’s body temperature for comfortable, on-the-go whitening. Philips’ ZOOM! line features Philips Zoom DayWhite and NiteWhite, which provide superior whitening results through highpotency gels and custom-molded trays. Philips Zoom NiteWhite offers carbamide peroxide formulations in 16% or 22% that can be worn overnight, while Philips Zoom DayWhite, available with 6% or 14% hydrogen peroxide, caters to patients who prefer to wear their trays for shorter periods of time.

IN-OFFICE WHITENING
Ultradent’s Opalescence Boost uses a unique chemical activator to whiten teeth. Syringe-to-syringe chairside mixing of the 40% hydrogen peroxide keeps the gel fresh while offering dramatic shade results with approximately two 2-minute applications. Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed uses advanced blue LED lightactivated technology to accelerate the whitening process, while customizable intensity settings ensure patients have a comfortable whitening experience. Offer the best of both worlds to patients with Evolve Dental Technologies’ KöR MAX whitening system—2 weeks of at-home nighttime whitening with KöR-Night 16% carbamide peroxide, plus a single in-office whitening visit using KöR 34% Dual-Activated, Tri-Barrel Hydremide Peroxide gel. KöR whitening gels are continuously refrigerated for ideal efficacy and minimized risk of sensitivity.

CLEAR ALIGNERS
As our selfie culture continues to grow, so does the number of cosmetic cases we see involving treatment with clear aligners. The following products help patients achieve a picture-perfect smile—which, in turn, helps clinicians boost patient acceptance.

Align Technology’s Invisalign clear aligners are backed by over 20 years of clinical research and innovation. The custom-made aligners use proprietary SmartForce features to achieve 75% more predictable tooth movement, as well as weekly aligner changes that cut treatment time in half. ClearCorrect Clear Aligners offer simplicity for dentists and patients. After submitting photos, x-rays, and digital impressions from nearly any intraoral scanner, ClearCorrect maps out a 3D model of the patient’s teeth and creates a web-based treatment plan that can be managed online or shared with patients 24/7. Dentsply Sirona's MTM Clear•Aligners have been a preferred custom-fit solution for many evaluators, who will now be directed to the new SureSmile Aligners. Using the advanced software capabilities and clinical expertise of the SureSmile Techno Center, each aligner is custom designed to the clinician’s treatment plan.


CLINICAL
IMPLANTS
Implants are steadily increasing in patient popularity as digital tools, including 3D images and 3D-printed surgical guides, pave a clearer, quicker, and more accurate path toward treatment.

Nobel Biocare has a collection of implant systems to meet the needs of many clinical scenarios. NobelZygoma, for example, provides greater surgical flexibility, with implant body lengths ranging from 30 mm to 52.5 mm. Straumann’s product line includes BLX, an implant model designed with strong, titanium- and zirconiumcontaining Roxolid material and a SLActive surface that accelerates osseointegration and increases the implant's survival rate. A powerhouse in the dental implant market, Zimmer Biomet attributes the fast-healing properties of its Trabecular Metal Implant to the BioBoost Effect—a multiplication of naturally occurring growth factors that provides earlier bone formation than traditional implants.

ALGINATE IMPRESSION MATERIALS
How do you know which alginate powders will produce the most ideal gel mixture for impressions that minimizes bubbles and voids? Our evaluators reveal the answer:

The high algin content in Dentsply Sirona’s Jeltrate provides clinicians with a controlled flow and patients with a more comfortable experience. An easy-to-mix material, KromaFaze by KaVo Kerr includes a colorchange feature that acts as a visual guide during the impression-taking process. KaVo Kerr’s Identic alginate comes in convenient packaging to increase shelf life. The material captures fine detail and creates an excellent stone surface.

VPS IMPRESSION MATERIALS
Capturing a tear- and bubble-free impression with accurate marginal detail is essential to creating a tightfitting restoration. The materials below offer clinicians confidence when impression-taking.

Featuring market-leading intraoral hydrophilicity, Dentsply Sirona’s Aquasil Ultra+ Smart Wetting Material offers 24-hour tear strength and comes in multiple viscosities and set times. The material is formulated to avoid trapping fluid from the moment it's syringed into the moist oral field. With a short intraoral setting time and accurate detail reproduction, Imprint 4 VPS by 3M delivers precise impression results while increasing patient comfort by quickly warming to the patient's body temperature. Genie VPS from Dentsply Sirona uses ultra-hydrophilic chemistry to improve accuracy in a wet oral environment. It also exceeds ISO standards for consistency, strain in compression, and detail reproduction.

BONDING AGENTS
In a 2018 ADA survey conducted on bonding agents, 54% of respondents said that their patients experienced marginal discoloration; 20% reported postoperative sensitivity; and 13% were concerned about debonding and secondary caries. The following bonding agents tackle these challenges headon to ensure successful and esthetic restorations.

Offering exceptional bond strength to dentin and enamel, 3M Scotchbond Universal Adhesive has a simple application process and produces virtually no postoperative sensitivity in both the totaland self-etch techniques. KaVo Kerr has several advanced versions of OptiBond, including OptiBond eXTRa Universal, a 2-component formulation that combines the reliability of patented OptiBond GPDM technology with the peace of mind of a universal adhesive. Kuraray's newest adhesive bonding agent, Clearfil SE Protect, contains proprietary self-etching, light-cure technology as well as long-term fluoride release. The MDPB monomer provides an antibacterial cavity-cleansing effect.

GLASS IONOMERS
Based on the reaction of silicate glass-powder and polyacrylic acid, glass ionomers are most commonly used as filling materials and luting cements, with the added benefit of fluoride release to the tooth.

GC America offers a robust line of glass ionomers and glass ionomer hybrids, including GC Fuji II LC—a triplecured, resin-reinforced crown and core buildup material that is ideal as a base under composite resin and amalgam, or as a temporary restorative. GC FujiCEM 2 is a glass ionomer luting cement powered by F2 Flex Fuse Technology, which incorporates a flexible longchain monomer and a modified fillersurface treatment to increase strength properties. RelyX Luting Plus by 3M offers a tack light-cure option and a sustained fluoride release.

CEMENTS (TEMPORARY)
Despite their indication for shortterm use, temporary cements produce far-reaching outcomes. They protect the prepared tooth from bacteria and thermal injury, and stabilize the temporary’s position until the fi nal restoration is placed.

Able to withstand mastication and seal temporary restorations while preventing seepage, Temp-Bond by KaVo Kerr is also easy to remove and minimizes the potential for damage to the prep or restoration. Premier’s NextTemp contains potassium nitrate, chlorhexidine, and fluoride to protect and soothe sensitive dentin while guarding against microleakage. Providing high compressive and flexural strength, Integrity TempGrip from Dentsply Sirona is a zinc-oxide, noneugenol cement with an automix syringe delivery and low-film thickness.

CEMENTS
The ideal cement is versatile and reliable with optimal radiopacity and high strength. Many cements decrease chair time by eliminating the need for separate etchants and primers.

The phosphorylated aspect of RelyX Unicem by 3M allows for selfconditioning of the tooth surface and self-adhesion without a separate conditioner or adhesive. The 5th generation in Kuraray's Panavia family, Panavia V5 is a dual-cure, fluoride-releasing, and color-stable universal cement with high self-cure bond strength to dentin. Dentsply Sirona's Calibra family includes a universal self-adhesive resin cement, a cement for all-ceramics and CAD/ CAM restorations, and an easy-tohandle veneer cement designed with ShadeStable technology.

BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
Both patients and clinicians hope to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible during all dental appointments. Manufacturers have responded with unique, toothfriendly products that promote a healthier dentin interface and focus on preventing rather than repairing.

A light-cured, resin-modified calcium silicate, TheraCal LC by BISCO comes with a unique apatitestimulating ability, making it ideal for direct and indirect pulp capping and lining. Pulpdent’s Lime-Lite is specially formulated to release calcium, hydroxyl, phosphate, and fluoride ions, which benefit tooth structure, stimulate secondary dentin formation, and have cariostatic properties. Moisture-friendly and capable of reacting to pH changes in the oral environment, Pulpdent's ACTIVA BioACTIVE composites, glass ionomers, and resin-modified glass ionomers use a bioactive resin matrix, a shock-absorbing resin component, and reactive ionomer glass fillers to mimic the physical and chemical properties of natural teeth.

UNIVERSAL COMPOSITES
A true time- and inventory-saver, universal composites can be used with total-, self-, and selective-etch techniques and in conjunction with dual-, self-, or light-cure materials, without the need for a separate activator.

Both esthetically pleasing and durable, 3M’s Filtek Supreme Ultra Universal Restorative has excellent polish retention, and its syringe delivery allows for easy handling. TPH Spectra ST by Dentsply Sirona uses SphereTEC filler technology to simplify placement, enhance chameleon-like blending for easier shade selection and matching, and improve strength while offering high polish and stain resistance. With 5-mm depth of cure and low-shrinkage stress, KaVo Kerr's SonicFill 3 helps clinicians craft quality restorations in one step, eliminating the need for a liner or capping layer.

FLOWABLE COMPOSITES
Flowable composites reduce the challenge of air bubbles when placed in difficult-to-reach areas. The indications for flowable composites range from a liner/base and veneer cementation to small core buildups.

Providing a quick and easy solution for a wide range of restorations, 3M's Filtek Supreme Ultra Flowable Restorative offers excellent esthetics, polish retention, and low wear; the material features a unique handling modifier to ensure a flow-on-demand delivery. With a new and enhanced formula, SDR flow+ by Dentsply Sirona offers more shades, greater wear resistance, and increased radiopacity—qualities that contribute to its long-term reliability. Shofu’s Beautifil Flow comes in 2 distinct viscosities that offer the same esthetics, physical properties, particle size, and filler load; Beautifil Flow Plus has a self-leveling, bubble-free consistency and superior adaptation properties to decrease voids.

BULK-FILL COMPOSITES
In 2018, nearly half of the 311 ACE Panel member dentists reported that they preferred an incremental technique when looking for bulkfill products. Forty-three percent are concerned about having an inadequate depth of cure, while 40% are worried about polymerization shrinkage stress. The following bulkfill composite products address these common clinical concerns.

3M’s bulk-fill composites—Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative and Filtek Bulk Fill Flowable Restorative—have features to improve speed, resist wear, sculpt with ease, and enhance esthetics. An esthetic and high-quality material, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill by Ivoclar Vivadent offers more working time due to its patented light-sensitivity filter.

CORE BUILDUP MATERIAL
Designed to match the physical properties of dentin, core buildup materials are applied to fill insufficient tooth structure in preparation for a restoration.

Versatile as both a core buildup material and a post cement, fiber reinforced Build-It FR from Pentron can self-cure in minutes and light-cure in seconds to a hard consistency. DenMat’s Core Paste XP has high compressive strength and superior handling properties. It comes in a white shade that is easily distinguished from tooth structure and an enamel shade for enhanced esthetics. Made with Active- Connect-Technology, Visalys Core from Kettenbach ensures a reliable bond free of bisphenol-A and its derivatives.

DESENSITIZERS
Patients with localized dentin sensitivity often need an isolated, inoffice approach to address discomfort.
Reorganizing collapsed collagen fibers to improve adhesiveness, GLUMA Desensitizer by Kulzer is proven to penetrate exposed dentinal tubules up to 200 μm, forming a hermetic seal that traps bacteria and prevents bacterial growth. Zest’s MicroPrime G glutaraldehyde desensitizer uses a HEMA formulation to desensitize tubules and can be used alone on cervical erosions or during bonding procedures. Tokuyama’s Shield Force Plus, through its Double Block Technology, guarantees sensitivity relief for up to 3 years.


EQUIPMENT
LOUPES
Dental loupes are designed for comfort and offer varying depths of field and working lengths. Look for options that offer extensive magnification ranges and unparalleled image clarity.

Through its extensive portfolio of dental loupes, Orascoptic offers a wide range of magnifications to provide an option for every clinician. XV1 is a cordless loupe-and-headlight set with a magnification power range between 2.5X and 5X. Among the types of loupes available from Designs for Vision are the patented Panoramic Loupes, which come with an unprecedented 11.1-cm by 9-cm field of view, crisp side-to-side imaging, and a rectangular shape for maximum peripheral vision. SurgiTel’s loupe collection includes its PrismPro Line, with a 5.5X to 8.0X magnification range that enhances visibility during high-precision procedures.

CURING LIGHTS
Today’s LED curing lights use visible blue light spectrum to provide a wide range of wavelengths for the polymerization of light-cure resin-based composites.

Each curing light in Ultradent’s collection, including VALO and VALO Grand, is made of tempered, highgrade aerospace aluminum to ensure durability and provide unsurpassed heat dissipation. 3M’s Elipar DeepCure-S LED has an angled light guide designed to make the curing process more comfortable for patients, even if they have limited mouth-opening abilities. Featuring polywave LED with a halogenlike broadband spectrum of 385 nm to 515 nm, Bluephase Style by Ivoclar Vivadent offers a compact, ergonomic shape and large treatment field due to its 10-mm light probe. It is available in 3 colors: gray, pink, or blue.
  LASERS
In the decades since the first use of a dental laser in 1960, the devices' clinical applications have continued to increase. Today, recent surveys show that nearly half of clinicians are using lasers for everything from teeth whitening to decay removal to periodontal therapy.

Both Picasso+ and Picasso Lite+ from AMD Lasers provide wireless foot control and 3 pairs of protective goggles. Picasso+ offers 7 W while Picasso Lite+ offers 3 W. Biolase’s Waterlase Express quickly trims soft tissue, controls bleeding, and removes interproximal decay without a drill. Available in 11 different colors with a collection of unique themed finishes, Waterlase iPlus is an all-tissue laser with up to 10 W of power and dozens of procedural presets in an easy-to-use interface. Weighing only 1.9 oz, the NV PRO3 Microlaser from DenMat is completely portable and allows for unobstructed access and visibility during posterior procedures without finger fatigue or loss of dexterity.

CARIES DETECTION
Clinicians can use all the diagnostic support they can get in addition to conventional tools and professional judgment. The caries-detection systems below use a variety of innovative technologies to identify lesions.

Using a laser fluorescence detector, DIAGNOdent by KaVo Kerr detects caries within the tooth structure and is especially useful for pit and fissure areas, even when the outer tooth surface seems to be intact. DEXIS’ CariVu uses transillumination technology that makes enamel appear transparent while porous lesions trap and absorb light. An FDAapproved, computer-aided radiographic caries-diagnosis software, Logicon by Carestream works with intraoral sensors to help dentists visually analyze radiographs and diagnose caries on proximal surfaces.

ISOLATION SYSTEMS
Isolation systems create an optimal intraoral environment that is easily accessible during a variety of procedures. The following products free clinicians and assistants from tasks like holding suction and retracting lips and cheeks.

Zyris offers 3 all-in-1 isolation systems—Isolite, Isodry, and Isovac—that provide continuous saliva evacuation, tongue retraction, shadowless illumination, and dual-channel suction in various designs. Designed by a dentist for dentists, DryShield’s patented mouthpiece comes in 5 sizes and is completely autoclavable. A disposable and cost-effective option, Zirc’s Mr. Thirsty One-Step provides hands-free isolation, retraction, and evacuation through a lightweight mouthpiece.

HANDPIECES—ELECTRIC
Advancements in electric handpiece technology have created constant speeds and attachments that are small and light for easy access.

Dentsply Sirona’s Midwest E Pro Electric Handpiece System features an extremely light, 59-g autoclavable motor, as well as handpiece attachments that are smaller and lighter than previous generations. The system is backed by a 3-year warranty. As an external air-to-electric conversion system with a dual-motor option, KaVo Kerr’s ELECTROmatic offers clinicians versatility to use the system with both high- and low-speed handpieces without having to disconnect and swap out during a procedure. Handpieces in NSK’s Ti- Max Z line are made of light and strong titanium to reduce hand strain during operation. Gears in the Ti-Max Z95L have a diamond-like carbon coating that minimizes noise level, while the Ti-Max Z45L uses a 45° contra-angle for easy access to hard-to-reach molars.

HANDPIECES—AIR DRIVEN
Often considered the workhorses of the practice, air-driven handpieces are known for their high speeds. And through smarter turbine innovation, they’ve become significantly less well known for their sound and vibration.

Dentsply Sirona’s Midwest line of air handpieces features the Midwest Phoenix, which offers over 20 W of power at approximately 62 dBa of sound. A small head size of 10.2 mm diameter by 12.7 mm height provides ample power for typical preparations. Combining the power of its 430 Torque handpiece with flex coupling, StarDental 430SWL Torque Flex from DENTALEZ offers 31 W of power for all high-speed procedures. KaVo Kerr’s SMARTmatic low-speed handpieces feature ceramic sliders within the clamping system, light and rust-free stainless-steel construction, and optimum balance.
TECHNOLOGY
INTRAORAL CAMERAS
When it comes to patient acceptance, seeing is believing. Intraoral cameras can be a strong patient education tool, enabling clinicians to highlight and document oral issues.

Using a 1.3 million pixel CMOS sensor, DEXIS DEXcam 4 HD by KaVo Kerr produces clear and highly detailed images that can be easily saved to a patient's record. IRIS from Digital Doc offers a streamlined design with a small and soft tip and dual-sided capture buttons for comfortable use. Carestream’s CS 1200 offers 1024 × 768 pixels for a still image and 640 × 480 pixels for a video image, while CS 1500 offers the widest focus range available.

2D IMAGING
While 3D x-rays are becoming more established in an increasing number of dental practices, 2D imaging still serves as a vital component of modern dental diagnostics.

A digital panorex system featuring the most commonly used image modes, Gendex GXDP-300 from KaVo Kerr uses proprietary Focus-Optimized X-ray (FOX) technology to quickly capture well-defined, high-quality images. A horizontally and vertically reduced pediatric panoramic program makes Dentsply Sirona's Orthophos XG 5 ideal for treating children. The unit offers easy data management and image diagnosis via Sidexis 4 imaging software. Designed to make positioning quick and simple, Carestream’s CS 8100 has an open design and comes with 3 anatomical programs that intuitively adapt to patients’ jaw morphology.

CBCT
An upgrade from 2D imaging, CBCT scans reveal depth and a closer look at complex anatomy—a necessary tool when it comes to treatment planning for implants or other restorative procedures.

With a 14-second scan and an optional HD mode, Dentsply Sirona's GALILEOS ComfortPLUS provides seamless workflow integration, greater patient communication, and the best possible image quality at the lowest radiation dose. Planmeca’s ProMax Series offers all-in-1 units with 3D capabilities in addition to panoramic, extraoral bitewing, and cephalometric imaging. KaVo Kerr's OP 3D Pro is a 3-in-1 system offering 2D, 3D, and upgradeable cephalometric imaging to treat the entire maxillofacial region. It offers maximum flexibility through 5 volume sizes and low-dose technology.

DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS
Digital intraoral scanners significantly increase patient comfort and can be used for a wide range of restorative and orthodontic scenarios. Scans can be sent directly to a lab or chairside CAD/CAM system to create a fast and simple restorative workflow.

Dentsply Sirona’s CEREC Omnicam and Primescan provide fast scanning and ergonomic handling. Primescan uses a Smart Pixel Sensor and Dynamic Depth Scan technology to produce accurate and sharp scans of up to 20 mm deep—enabling digital impressions even for subgingival or particularly deep preparations. The advanced wand of Align Technology’s iTero Element 2 offers built-in controls, allowing clinicians to rotate models on-screen, while the patent-pending ITO defogging system defogs without needing air or extended warming. 3Shape’s TRIOS uses Ultrafast Optical Sectioning technology to capture more than 3,000 2D images per second, then combines up to 1,000 3D digital pictures to create the final impression.

CAD/CAM CHAIRSIDE MILLING
CAD/CAM technology has transformed the way restorative treatment is provided. Chairside milling allows clinicians to offer single-visit restorations while reducing lab costs and saving patients from needing additional visits.

CEREC milling and grinding units from Dentsply Sirona are tailored to address specific clinical requirements. CEREC MC is ideal for CAD/CAM beginners, accommodating singletooth restorations with a block size of up to 20 mm; CEREC MC X includes an expansive range of chairside treatment with up to a 40-mm block size, including bridges and abutments. For fast and accurate chairside milling, Planmeca’s PlanMill 30 S, a solid entry point into chairside milling, is compatible with a wide range of restorative materials and uses a 4-axis high-speed single spindle to reach a maximum speed of 100,000 rpms. PlanMill 40 S uses 4-axis dual spindles, which produce crowns in approximately 8 to 10 minutes per restoration. IOS FastScan and TS150 Milling Station by Glidewell Laboratories allows for in-office fabrication of same-day restorations in under 90 minutes.

DIGITAL SENSORS
The latest digital intraoral sensors on the market are designed for patient comfort and treatment acceptance, while providing significantly less radiation exposure than traditional film radiographs.

KaVo Kerr’s DEXIS Titanium and DEXIS Platinum both have features that reflect the latest innovations in intraoral sensor design. DEXIS Titanium’s design drastically reduces noise, cleans data, safeguards image integrity, and enhances performance. DEXIS Platinum uses PureImage Technology and TrueComfort to provide dentists with consistent image quality and comfortable operation. Robust and durable with silicon-coated cables, Schick 33 sensors by Dentsply Sirona offer an opportunity to customize based on your practice’s needs, with a variety of sensor sizes, cable lengths, and image enhancements. An intraoral sensor designed to work for the clinician, Carestream’s RVG 6200 offers customizable views and exceptional image quality; an ergonomically optimized rear-entry cable allows for easier placement and positioning.

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
Practice management software takes advantage of today's information age by helping clinicians organize and track patient data, manage finances, and attract more patients to the practice. The more advanced systems serve as a central hub for practice technology.

Henry Schein One’s Dentrix enables clinicians to power their practice through a single, opentechnology platform. The powerful software offers built-in business solutions so you can make progress toward goals and increase practice profitability. With a complete digital integration package and top-notch technical support for issue resolution, Eaglesoft by Patterson Dental integrates practice management tools and clinical functionality for maximum efficiency; clinicians can save and enhance digital x-rays from the Advanced Imaging Window feature. To keep staff members informed, CS Softdent from Carestream has Practice Central, a daily overview displaying important tasks and patient information at your fingertips. It also makes creating detailed financial reports and interpreting billing estimates simple.

PATIENT COMMUNICATION
Keeping in touch with patients is an essential part of building a strong practice. From appointment reminders to email blasts to social media marketing, patient engagement tools boost your practice reputation and keep patients loyal to your office.

Featuring automated appointment reminders, TrueTime Data, and numerous communication outlets to build relationships with potential patients, Lighthouse 360 helps the front desk free up time, saving staff members 16.8 hours per week on average. Solutionreach’s problem-solving features can reduce no-shows, increase patient visits, and improve patient satisfaction, all while advancing practice profitability. Dentrix Communication Manager from Henry Schein One includes Appointment Manager, which organizes the day’s appointments and patient information in one place, and a patient-satisfaction survey, which gives patients the opportunity to refer friends or family members to the practice.

HYGIENE
POWER SCALERS

Power scalers allow for a more comfortable experience in the disruption of bacteria and biofilm, and stain removal.

Dentsply Sirona's Cavitron family of ultrasonic scalers includes the new Cavitron 300 Series, which offers intuitive power settings on an easyto- navigate touchscreen interface. It produces less noise, heat, and water spray than other systems. Featuring a power-boosting Turbo feature for additional power when needed, Parkell’s TurboVue offers optional illumination through a lighttransmitting 30K insert. BioSonic SUVI Piezo Scaler from COLTENE combines ergonomics with specially designed LED lighting and simple operation through an easy-to-use touch panel and dynamic foot pedal.
  PROPHY ANGLES
Prophy angles, which aid in teeth cleaning and polishing, should have smooth operation and ergonomic features that keep patients comfortable and allow hygienists to easily reach difficult areas of the patient’s mouth.

An ergonomic, sleek prophy angle, Vera, by Young Dental, is smaller in size to feel more comfortable for the patient during polishing while decreasing the amount of uncomfortable movement for the clinician. Young Classic comes with the Elite Flex Cup, which flexes and flares around the contours of the tooth for thorough polishing. Dentsply Sirona's Nupro revolv Disposable Prophy Angles come in contra spiral, spiral, soft, firm, and pedo cups to meet the polishing needs of any patient, while Nupro Freedom Disposable Prophy Angles are designed to work with the Nupro Freedom cordless handpiece.

PROPHY PASTES
Prophy pastes contain a mild abrasive for removing plaque, calculus, and stains. Newer formulations go a step further to boost and remineralize enamel.

Uniquely formulated for a splatterfree cleaning, Dentsply Sirona’s Nupro Prophy Paste features strong stain removal and polishing, and has a wide selection of patient-pleasing and gluten-free flavors. Enamel Pro by Premier is made with innovative amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) technology that has been clinically proven to provide 31% more fluoride uptake and leaves a high luster. Acclean by Henry Schein has a nonsplattering quality and offers an exceptional polishing finish.

PROPHY HANDPIECES
The ideal prophy handpiece combines a lightweight and ergonomic design with features that keep you in control when polishing and cleaning.

Dentsply Sirona’s Midwest RDH offers an ergonomic and lightweight design to neutralize hand position during procedures, while a 360° cord swivel improves maneuverability and access. Made with SmartMode Technology to eliminate the need for a foot pedal, Nupro Freedom Cordless Prophy Package allows clinicians to easily control the speed and power of the prophy cup. Young Hygiene Handpiece by Young Dental has a contra-angled connector and a nose cone that rotates 360° to provide enhanced comfort.

VARNISHES
Most fluoride varnish treatments consist of 5% sodium fluoride, benefiting patients of any age who experience recurrent decay.

Enamel Pro Varnish by Premier uses an ACP formulation to deliver fluoride and calcium ions to the tooth while treating dentinal and postop sensitivity. Enhancing enamel acid resistance and boosting salivary fluoride levels, MI Varnish by GC America uses proprietary RECALDENT technology to recharge and remineralize tooth structure while enhancing enamel acid resistance. Uniquely formulated with rapid fluoride release for hypersensitivity relief, Nupro White Varnish by Dentsply Sirona releases more than 7 times the amount of fluoride than the leading varnish brands over a 2-hour period while minimizing clumping during application. Colgate Professional's PreviDent is available in unit doses, dries to a natural enamel color, and comes in 4 great-tasting flavors that are sweetened with xylitol. 3M's Vanish uses tricalcium phosphate to offer advanced protection, even after an acid attack, while continuously releasing fluoride up to 24 hours.