Can Diagnodent provide reliable caries-removal end points?

The usefulness of the Diagnodent (KaVo) in determining caries-removal end points is “doubtful,” according to researchers from Catholic University of Leuven (Journal of Dentistry, February 18, 2011). They compared the mineral density of residual dentin after excavation with different caries-removal techniques, including laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) measured by the Diagnodent. Carious teeth were excavated by tungsten-carbide round burs, ceramic burs, sono-abrasion, and chemomechanical excavation using two enzyme-based solutions or a sodium

New HPV test shows promise for head/neck cancer

In a clinical study designed to detect human papillomavirus (HPV) E6/E7 mRNA in routine clinical specimens of head and neck cancer, HPV status determined by the RNAscope HPV test was highly predictive of patient outcome and highly concordant with that determined by existing methods, according to Advanced Cell Diagnostics (ACD), manufacturer of the RNAscope. The RNAscope test under development demonstrated 16% higher detection sensitivity than the HPV DNA test used

Head/neck cancer research targets specific cells

Saint Louis University Cancer Center has received a $50,000 grant from the Lottie Caroline Hardy Charitable Trust to study a therapy that targets head and neck cancer cells while sparing those that are healthy, the university announced. Govindaswamy Chinnadurai, PhD, a professor of molecular virology at Saint Louis University, is using an animal model of head and neck cancer to conduct his research. He is using a viral vector, a

3Shape, Astra Tech form lab-based scanning alliance

CAD/CAM equipment and software provider 3Shape and Astra Tech, which develops CAD/CAM abutments, have formed a new alliance. Initially they will develop a software interface enabling the 3Shape dental scanners to communicate with the Atlantis VAD (Virtual Abutment Design) software used for the design and production of patient-specific implant abutments. The interface will make it possible for 3Shape scanner users to quickly and easily transfer digital scan information of patient

Remedent integrates Objet Geometries’ 3D technology

Remedent has teamed with Objet Geometries to enhance the fabrication process for dental veneer try-ins and delivery guides using Objet’s 3D printing solutions. With Objet’s 3D technology, Remedent is able to create temporary clip-on veneers, allowing patients to realistically evaluate how their final ceramic veneers will look and feel before the order is placed, the company explained. Remedent can now rapidly manufacture high-quality, customized veneer models and delivery trays directly

Dental groups concerned about global mercury discussions

The ADA is one of seven dental organizations voicing concerns about the direction current international mercury treaty negotiations are taking, according to a story in the ADA News. “Dental amalgam is an essential tool to help us provide oral healthcare to those in need,” the ADA and six other groups stated in a letter sent February 22 to the U.S. State Department. “While there are other restorative materials, there is

Forsyth team IDs new dental caries pathogen

Researchers at the Forsyth Institute have identified a new pathogen connected to severe early childhood caries (ECC). This research may offer the potential to intervene and halt the progression of the disease, according to the researchers. Severe ECC, while strongly associated with Streptococcus mutans using selective detection methods, has also been associated with other bacteria using molecular cloning approaches. The aim of this study, which will be published in the

Glidewell R&D targets transparent zirconia

Glidewell Laboratories has moved closer to producing transparent nanozirconia by successfully synthesizing 3-nm zirconia nanocrystals produced by “bottom-up” nanotechnology. The research team, led by Ken Knapp, Glidewell Laboratories’ program manager and lead researcher, developed a method for producing nonagglomerated 3-nm nanocrystalline zirconia powder using a revolutionary bottom-up nanotechnology technique known as gas-phase condensation. The focused effort of the nanozirconia research team over the last year has resulted in new discoveries

Are there too many toothpastes?

The number of toothpaste varieties on the shelves of U.S. grocery stores has dropped considerably after makers became concerned about confused customers, according to an article in the Wall Street Journal. Indeed, manufacturers introduced 69 new dentifrices in 2010, a significant decline from more than a hundred in 2007, according to the Wall Street Journal, with companies taking a “less is better” approach to reduce consumer confusion. But this trend

3M ESPE expands Protemp shade choices

3M ESPE is gearing up to introduce broader and optimized shade offerings of Protemp Plus temporization material in response to the needs of dental professionals. Starting in April, six different shades will be available, including an A3.5 shade added to fulfill users’ interests in a darker option, the company announced. The existing bleach shade also will offer enhanced translucency for more lifelike temporary restorations compared to its predecessor, according to

Align Technology sues clear-aligner competitor

Align Technology has filed two lawsuits against ClearCorrect, one alleging that ClearCorrect is infringing Align patents by making, offering to sell, and selling its clear-aligner therapy systems and the other alleging that ClearCorrect is engaging in unlawful business practices. In the patent infringement lawsuit filed February 28 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas against ClearCorrect and various related corporate entities, Align asserts that ClearCorrect infringes

Hygienist publishes book to help kids learn oral care

A dental hygienist in Southern California has written a book designed to help children learn the importance of good dental habits, according to a story in the San Diego Union Tribune. Linda Valderrama of San Marcos told the Union Tribune that after more than 25 years of dispensing advice to her patients, it was time to write it all down and gear it specifically to children. Her new, self-published book,