RightSmile recently completed a reverse merger with Potential Holdings and changed the name of the company to RightSmile. As a result, the company now has 31 million shares outstanding and a float of 3 million shares. p>RightSmile sells teeth-whitening products to salons known as SmileShoppes. The product line consists of teeth whitening trays used in the salons and take-home products, including touch-up pens. The company said in a press release
In an online survey conducted by Lanmark Group, some 300 dental hygienists responded candidly to 50 wide-ranging questions, revealing what they love and hate most about their profession — and the dentists and patients they work with. Their answers portray a group of dedicated dental professionals who are passionate about their work and helping patients but frustrated with the constraints placed on them by dental boards and with a general
An enamel matrix derivative (EMG) combined with a modified tunnel/connective tissue graft (CTG) was no more effective in restoring recessive gums than CTG alone, researchers reported Nov. 30 in the online edition of the Journal of Clinical Periodontology. The researchers — from the universities of Szeged, Semmelweis, Hungary, and Denis Diderot University, Paris — performed different treatments on opposite sides of the mouth in 20 patients who had at least
Levin Group announced that it has been engaged by Novalar Pharmaceuticals to develop a program to demonstrate to dental professionals the value of OraVerse as an effective routine treatment in cases where anesthesia reversal is appropriate. OraVerse is the first and only anesthesia reversal agent that restores normal sensation twice as fast and accelerates return to normal function so patients can speak, smile, and drink normally, the companies said in
The debate over the regulation — or lack thereof — of teeth-whitening products heated up last month when the ADA petitioned the FDA to begin classifying bleaching chemicals. The move stems from a 2008 ADA House of Delegates resolution seeking to petition the FDA to properly classify these chemicals. The resolution came amidst concerns about safety issues regarding unlicensed providers working in teeth-whitening businesses. Teeth-whitening kiosks and centers run by
Good periodontal care is important for everyone, but it can be especially critical to the health of hemodialysis patients. Recent research shows that periodontitis is prevalent and severe in these patients, possibly increasing their risk of heart attacks and strokes. At the same time, the condition of their kidneys poses challenges when it comes to maintaining their oral health. So when should an oral health professional consult with the patient’s
Align Technology has established a university-centric research award program to further the development of clear aligners for the treatment of malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth. The new Clear Aligner Research Award Program is designed to promote both clinical and scientific research in clear aligner therapy, the company said in a press release. Eligible applicants include full-time university faculty involved in orthodontic scientific research and non-orthodontic scientists whose work may contribute
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has hired a large public relations firm to raise awareness of the importance of pediatric dentistry. MWW Group, which calls itself “one of the nation’s top ten public relations firms,” said it “will spearhead an integrated communications program for the AAPD to help raise public awareness of the pediatric dentistry profession, the importance of children’s oral health to overall health, and reinforce the
Recognizing the need for faster service, higher quality, and greater patient satisfaction, competing companies Breton Dental Studio and C&C Dental Ceramics have merged to form Studio 2 Digital Dental Design in Kentwood, MI. “Through our combined resources, we have added industry-leading technology to complement our skilled artisans in creating vibrant, natural restorations,” said Randy Richter, co-founder of Studio 2, in a press release. “With both the computer design and creative
The ADA isn’t sure whether a proposed new 5% tax on cosmetic procedures would apply to dentistry, but it isn’t waiting to find out. The organization has joined cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists, and antitax groups in opposing the so-called “botax,” which is tucked inside the healthcare reform legislation being debated by the U.S. Senate. Last week the ADA wrote to the Senate asking that the tax be removed from the bill.
Prominent health columnist Jane Brody’s assertion that implants are always superior to bridges has stirred some controversy. “In an overwhelming majority of cases, implants to replace lost teeth are by far the best long-term solution for maintaining a healthy mouth,” wrote Brody in a Nov 17 column. “Also, because they rarely need to be replaced, in the long run they are more economical than bridges.” But some dentists are expressing
Lasers can reduce bacterial contamination and speed healing after implant surgery, according to a presentation at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Edward Kusek, D.D.S., is convinced of the benefits of erbium chromium lasers for endodontic and implant surgery. So much so that he doesn’t charge his patients when he uses one. “It’s a win situation for the dentist because we can get things done faster,”
