SprintRay, the leader in dental 3D printing, unveiled the Company's most significant innovation to-date to over 250 dental professionals at 3DNext, their summit in Miami. The Midas Digital Press 3D Printer is poised to not only transform dental restoration practices but also inspires an entirely new understanding of the future of 3D printing capabilities.

With Midas, SprintRay revealed the first and only Digital Press Stereolithography (DPS) technology and patent-pending Resin Capsule System, enabling the use of previously unworkable and highly viscous resins with 3D printing. The combined product and technology process sets an entirely new standard for what has been previously possible in 3D printing.

"Materials, more than anything, have dictated what is possible in the dental restoration field," said Amir Mansouri, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of SprintRay. "The introduction of Midas revolutionizes both the manner in which material is transformed and reveals an entirely new paradigm of what can actually be printed. Until now, materials like ceramics were too thick for traditional 3D printers to handle. Midas changes everything. Not only does this innovation handle today's ceramic-based materials but sets the stage for future advances in composites and ceramics. We are on the brink of a new era in biomaterial innovation, and we're thrilled to be leading the charge."

When Midas becomes available to dental professionals later this year, it will be the first truly new 3D printing methodology to be commercialized in four decades. Combined with SprintRay's all-new AI Studio design software, chairside design and delivery of restorations will be a faster and more seamless experience than ever before.

Dr. Wally Renne, DMD, a global leader in digital dentistry and co-founder of MOD Institute, said, "SprintRay's Midas, in my opinion, is the biggest breakthrough in dentistry since September 1985, when the first CEREC inlay was milled. SprintRay has invented a new way to 3D print called 'digital press stereolithography,' easily enabling the chairside fabrication of crowns, inlays, onlays and veneers. Their first Midas resin will have over 70% ceramic filler and can be printed in under eight minutes. And that's just the beginning. Their announced partnership with Ivoclar for material development sets a tone for a very exciting future. Digital dentistry was just upended."

Digital Press Stereolithography, No Training, Zero Maintenance:

Midas and DPS eliminates viscosity limitations and creates a new platform for material innovation. The patented process removes the boundaries chemists have previously faced to change the mechanical properties and aesthetics of resin. Midas is the first 3D printer ever to use Digital Press Stereolithography (DPS), eliminating the need for large resin vats and other reusable parts. Utilizing a vacuum-sealed Midas Resin Capsule that can print up to three units in less than eight minutes, Midas delivers an incredibly clean, simple workflow without viscosity limitations.

The AI Design Studio:

Complementing the printer, SprintRay introduces AI Studio, a cloud-based design software that automates the creation of dental restorations. AI Studio integrates today with 3Shape, Dexis, and Medit scanners to give doctors the ability to edit and change the design including margin editing, positioning and adaptation adjustments, and edits to anatomy - all without requiring any CAD experience. A single click sends designs to Midas, including any STL design file from any dental design software or lab for maximum convenience.

Future of Biomaterial Innovation:

"Midas has changed what we view as possible in 3D printed materials. This new open platform allows an entire industry of material science innovators to explore a new galaxy of solutions. Biomaterial has a very exciting future that is going to result in monumental benefits for our customers and patients alike," said Ehsan Barjasteh, Ph.D., head of the SprintRay Biomaterial Innovation Lab.

Midas and AI Studio, combined with NanoCure, signify a monumental advancement in dental restoration manufacturing, characterized by speed, simplicity, and groundbreaking innovation in restorative materials. The waitlist for Midas is now open, with deliveries set to begin in Q4 2024. For more information visit sprintray.com

About SprintRay

SprintRay is a dental technology company that builds end-to-end 3D printing ecosystems for dental professionals. SprintRay designs and manufactures user-friendly and cutting-edge dental solutions including 3D printers and post-processing ecosystems, 3D printing software featuring AI technology, and innovative 3D resins. Dental care providers can deliver best-in-class service by leveraging SprintRay's highly-specialized, affordable technologies. For more information, visit www.sprintray.com.

Heartland Dental, the nation's leading dental support organization (DSO), proudly announces the successful implementation of VideaAI, VideaHealth's dental AI platform, offering supported doctors and their teams an advanced tool to help elevate patient care while maintaining clinical autonomy. This marks a significant achievement for Heartland Dental and its supported practices, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to world class tools, technologies, and clinical innovations that enable efficiency and excellence. This is the largest rollout of dental AI in industry history, completed in just under 10 weeks.

"Years of due diligence, strong partnerships, and collaboration across our team of industry experts were crucial components to a successful implementation. The speed of the implementation was ultimately the result of that due diligence and underscores Heartland Dental's dedication to providing our supported doctors and their teams with access to advanced solutions that align with our proven systems," shared Timothy Quirt, DDS, MBA, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations.

VideaAI has empowered Heartland Dental and its supported practices to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and unlock new opportunities for growth. By leveraging the advanced features and capabilities of this innovative solution, Heartland Dental supported practices have experienced a multitude of benefits, including:

**Increased Patient Engagement: VideaAI's personalized patient communication tools build on Heartland Dental's supported practices' commitment to further improve patient engagement and satisfaction, leading to better treatment outcomes.

**Improved Operational Efficiency: VideaAI's analytics and insights have enabled Heartland Dental to identify areas for operational improvement for supported practices, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings.

**Enhanced Training and Education: VideaHealth's video-based training modules have facilitated better training and education for dental staff, helping to promote consistent delivery of high-quality care across practices.

VideaHealth has a hybrid, virtual-first approach to engaging dental practices to deliver support at scale. VideaHealth's support structure and strong collaboration with the Heartland Dental team contributed to Heartland's successful implementation and continues to facilitate adoption efforts for supported offices. "My sincerest hope is that the successful rollout of AI across the vast Heartland Dental supported footprint will help other DSOs recognize what is possible. With many DSOs whose scale is smaller, rollout is possible in a matter of weeks, not months," said Florian Hillen, Founder and CEO of VideaHealth.

"Our supported doctors, hygiene providers, and dental office team members are highly engaged with the VideaAI platform. Heartland supported providers and team members are learning from one another and sharing best practices, a living example of the community aspect of our supported network and their commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration," reflected Seth Gibree, DMD, FAGD, Senior Director of Clinical AI and Innovation.

Heartland Dental's unique doctor-led culture and support model ensures that initiatives, such as the implementation of VideaAI, are those that are best positioned to help supported doctors enhance patient care. With the successful implementation of VideaAI technology, Heartland Dental reaffirms its position as a leader in dentistry and looks forward to achieving even greater milestones in the future.

About Heartland Dental

Heartland Dental is the nation's largest dental support organization providing non-clinical, administrative support services. What started from the entrepreneurial spirit of Rick Workman, DMD, with his single dental practice, has evolved into affiliating with over 2,800 doctors in over 1,700 locations across 39 states and the District of Columbia. The company is majority owned by KKR, a leading global investment firm. For additional information, please visit heartland.com.

Pacific Dental Services, a leading U.S. provider of dental and medical support services, is proud to announce its transformation to "PDS Health," signifying its evolution into a comprehensive healthcare support organization. This change reflects the company's growth from its origins in dental support to becoming a leader in healthcare innovation, aiming to revolutionize patient care through the integration of dental and medical services.

For three decades, Pacific Dental Services has been at the forefront of the oral healthcare industry, dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes in communities across the country through clinical excellence and proven technology. Scientific evidence clearly shows that oral health directly impacts overall health, and vice versa, prompting the organization to extend its focus beyond comprehensive dentistry. PDS has long pioneered the inclusion of dental specialty areas such as oral surgery, endodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics into general dentistry practices, and has recently expanded into primary medical care.

"When we founded Pacific Dental Services 30 years ago, our goal was to become the greatest dental company in America. Along the way, we've not only become a leader in the field but have continued to elevate the standard," said PDS Health Founder and CEO Stephen E. Thorne IV. "Today marks the next step in our journey as we extend our commitment beyond dental care. By continuing to build strong partnerships with clinicians and aligned organizations, and deepening collaboration between dental and medical professionals, we can ultimately bring about needed change in health care and meaningfully improve patient health. We recognize for dental-medical integration to maximize its impact on patient health, there is much work to be done; we seek to be a leader at the forefront of these initiatives and be a key player in leading the change."

The introduction of PDS Health signifies more than just a new name; it represents a redefinition of the organization's identity and reflection of its broadened mission to drive dental-medical integration to improve patient health outcomes and reduce overall healthcare costs. PDS Health is committed to driving innovations and curating new technologies designed to accelerate dental-medical integration and help clinicians implement a primary care model that is predictive, preventive, and personalized, deeply rooted in the understanding of the Mouth-Body Connection®.

With its experienced executive leadership team, PDS Health anticipates a future filled with innovation and transformative health solutions. The company's purpose―healthier, happier patients―remains at the core of its strategic direction and operations.

A New Headquarters Symbolizing Commitment to Innovation

Accompanying its transformation, PDS Health has unveiled its new headquarters located at 3521 Volunteer Boulevard in Henderson, Nev. The 36,000-square-foot building includes executive office spaces, meeting rooms and expansion areas for future initiatives. The building will also house the future Thorne Center for Excellence, a leadership academy established to help build the next generation of clinical and non-clinical leaders for the company.

This move signifies the organization's resolve to lead in the future of integrated health care.

The company officially opened its headquarters Monday, April 22 at a grand opening event attended by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, City of Henderson Mayor Michelle Romero and Henderson city officials.

PDS Health continues to operate support centers in Irvine, Calif., Henderson, Nev., and Dallas, Texas, and plans to open an additional support center in Miami later this year, further expanding its national presence.

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence, Innovation, and Service

2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the organization's founding, celebrating three decades of extraordinary growth, innovation, and service. Since its inception in 1994, it has become a leader in the dental industry, with success rooted in the accomplishments of each supported practice, clinician partner and patient encounter. The company is known for offering superior mentorship, access to advanced, proven technology and an environment that elevates the roles of oral healthcare professionals to improve the overall health of patients.

On its journey to enhance dental-medical integration, the organization has achieved many significant milestones, such as implementing Epic, the largest electronic health records system in the U.S., across all supported dental practices. It also opened several co-located dental and medical practices in Las Vegas, Nevada, and established a joint venture with MemorialCare health system to open co-located oral health and primary care practices in Southern California, with the inaugural site launching successfully in December 2023.

Today, PDS Health supports over 4,600 clinicians in nearly 1,000 practices across 24 states. With more than 15,000 team members nationwide, the organization is poised for substantial growth, dedicated to leading positive and necessary change in health care.

For further details about PDS Health, please visit pdshealth.com.

About PDS Health

PDS Health® continues the journey started by Pacific Dental Services® in 1994, with a vision to redefine health care through the integration of dental and medical services. Its approach, centered on the connection between oral health and overall health, aims to create healthier, happier patients and set new benchmarks in the healthcare industry. As a leading provider of integrated healthcare support, the company delivers a broad spectrum of services to dental, dental specialties, and medical providers, enhancing operations and care delivery for clinicians across the U.S. For more information about PDS Health and its vision, visit pdshealth.com.

Mouth-Body Connection® is a registered trademark of PDS Health.

Epic® is a registered trademark of Epic Systems Corporation.

Every year, roughly 3 million Americans receive implants to replace lost teeth. While this technology has represented a leap of progress in dental care, over time, inflammation and gum disease ― nurtured by microbial biofilms, or plaque ― can affect the soft tissue and bone surrounding the implant and cause these tooth replacements to fail. An innovative new implant now on the horizon may one day address these issues, disrupting biofilms through its inherent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The design of this next generation implant is the work of Dr. Geelsu Hwang at Penn Dental Medicine, who has a background in engineering that he brings to his research on biofilms and their role in oral health.

"The lack of a good seal between the implant structure and the surrounding gum, compared to a natural tooth, means that the risk of disease around the implant is quite high," Hwang says.

The new implant he and his collaborators are developing would interfere with biofilms and combat peri-implant infection in two ways:

First, the crown, the artificial tooth atop the implant structure, will be suffused with nanoparticles made of a chemical compound that naturally wards off bacteria. Hwang and his team have been experimenting with the compound barium titanate (BTO).

Second, the base of the crown will contain LEDs that deliver a regular dose of phototherapy to the surrounding gum tissue, giving off light at a wavelength that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The LEDs will be powered by the piezoelectric material in the crown (like the BTO) that converts the motion of chewing or toothbrushing to electrical energy.

Hwang notes that this platform could one day be integrated not only into dental implants, but into other applications, such as joint replacements, as well.

In 2023, the National Institutes of Health awarded Hwang a five-year grant to further advance the implant development. The NIH funding will support tests of the new implant technology, using laboratory cultures of human gum tissue and, ultimately, test implants in mini pigs as preparation for human clinical trials.

In related research, he is also studying a new piezoelectric dental composite material for fillings. The material would generate an enhanced electrical charge at the interface from the mechanical pressure of chewing, and this on its own would inhibit bacterial colonization of the composite surface.

Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) today announced that for the third consecutive year it is supporting the Carry The Load^® Memorial May campaign, a month-long Memorial Day awareness program providing active ways to connect Americans to the sacrifices made by the U.S. military, veterans, first responders, and their families.

Since 2022, Team Schein has walked throughout the country to honor and remember the nation’s fallen heroes. For a recap of last year’s rally at Henry Schein’s Corporate Headquarters in Melville, click here.

As a national sponsor, Henry Schein is supporting activities being held across the U.S. during May through its businesses and corporate organizations. The participating businesses include North American Rescue (NAR), Henry Schein Dental, Henry Schein Medical, and Henry Schein One, joined by Henry Schein Cares, the Company’s global corporate social responsibility program, and Henry Schein’s Veterans Engagement Team (VET) Employee Resource Group. Additionally, the businesses will once again sponsor the flagship event, the Dallas Memorial March, a two-day celebration of heroes, remembrance of the fallen, and education in respectful observance of Memorial Day.

“Team Schein looks forward to participating in Carry The Load events this May in recognition of the individuals who have served and are currently serving our country,” said Stanley M. Bergman, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Henry Schein. “As a company with many Team Schein Members who fulfilled military duties, we value the contributions service members bring to our organizations, families, and communities. It is important that on this Memorial Day, we pause and remember the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we enjoy each day.”

Beginning on April 29, 2024, Team Schein Members around the country will walk in the National Relay, attend community events, and fundraise for the nation’s heroes. Henry Schein Cares, NAR, Henry Schein Dental, Henry Schein Medical, and Henry Schein One will sponsor the following community events and the Dallas Memorial March:

• May 1, 2024 – Melville, New York

• May 4, 2024 – Reno/Sparks, Nevada

• May 9, 2024 – Chicago, Illinois

• May 11, 2024 – Greer, South Carolina

• May 26 - 27, 2024 – Dallas, Texas

“Giving back to the communities we serve is an important part of our Team Schein culture,” said Ron South, Executive Sponsor of Henry Schein’s Veterans Engagement Team, and Chief Financial Officer. “Having the opportunity to walk throughout the month, in honor of our nation’s heroes, exemplifies the Company’s spirit of volunteerism, and we are delighted to be involved in this initiative.”

Carry The Load is a non-profit organization founded more than a decade ago as a grassroots effort by two veteran U.S. Navy SEALs to restore the true meaning of Memorial Day and to raise awareness of the sacrifices surrounding men and women in uniform. Its Memorial May initiative was created to honor and remember the people who died while serving in the U.S. military.

“Seeing Team Schein join us in support of the Memorial May campaign for consecutive years further highlights our shared values and dedication to honoring our nation’s heroes,” said Stephen Holley, Co-founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Carry The Load. “Together, we continue to ensure the legacies of our service members and their families endure.”

Henry Schein’s participation in the Carry The Load program aligns with the company’s ongoing support of veterans and service members. For example, VET, its Employee Resource Group for veterans and members of the Armed Forces, was created to unify veterans, their families, and Team Schein Members by fostering camaraderie, providing recruitment and advocacy for service members, and giving back to the community. VET helps to establish a forum for members to engage, collaborate, develop, and address the unique issues that veterans face, as well as assist in the company’s outreach to veteran communities to enhance recruitment and onboarding efforts, and support Henry Schein's corporate citizenship philosophy through community engagement.

The company is also a DOD SkillBridge authorized organization, providing service members with opportunities to enhance various skills through Henry Schein externships. Additionally, NAR, a Henry Schein Medical business, is a leading provider of survivability and casualty-care medical products to the defense and public safety markets.

For more information about the Carry The Load Memorial May campaign and to register for an event, please click here. For more information on Henry Schein’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts, please click here.

About Henry Schein, Inc.

Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) is a solutions company for health care professionals powered by a network of people and technology. With more than 25,000 Team Schein Members worldwide, the company's network of trusted advisors provides more than 1 million customers globally with more than 300 valued solutions that help improve operational success and clinical outcomes. Our Business, Clinical, Technology, and Supply Chain solutions help office-based dental and medical practitioners work more efficiently so they can provide quality care more effectively. These solutions also support dental laboratories, government and institutional health care clinics, as well as other alternate care sites.

Henry Schein operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, with a selection of more than 300,000 branded products and Henry Schein corporate brand products in our distribution centers.

A FORTUNE 500 Company and a member of the S&P 500® index, Henry Schein is headquartered in Melville, N.Y., and has operations or affiliates in 33 countries and territories. The company's sales reached $12.3 billion in 2023, and have grown at a compound annual rate of approximately 11.5 percent since Henry Schein became a public company in 1995.

For more information, visit Henry Schein at www.henryschein.com, Facebook.com/HenrySchein, Instagram.com/HenrySchein, and @HenrySchein on X.

About Carry the Load ®

Carry The Load is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2011 by veteran U.S. Navy SEALs Clint Bruce and Stephen Holley. Carry The Load’s mission is to provide active ways to honor and remember our nation’s heroes by connecting Americans to the sacrifices made by our military, veterans, first responders, and their families.

For more, visit www.carrytheload.org or carrytheload.org/newsroom. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

In a crisis, a checklist can bring clarity over confusion. First widely adopted by the U.S. military after the fatal crash of an early-model B17 “Flying Fortress” in the years before World War II, checklists have since become a staple for fields such as aviation, nuclear energy, and medicine.

“Remember Captain Sully?” asks Morton Rosenberg, D74, professor emeritus at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM), referring to pilot Sully Sullenberger who famously landed a distressed airliner on the Hudson River in 2009. “He was an experienced pilot. But the first thing he did was open his list and keep repeating [the steps] to his copilot. Because while people may have been trained on the right thing to do in an emergency, sometimes they jump from one thing to another.”

So when Rosenberg and a group of dentists set about creating a digital tool to help guide their colleagues through emergency situations, they turned to the checklist.

Rosenberg, an expert in the field of anesthesiology, was part of a team from the Anesthesia Research Foundation of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology that developed a free app called 10 Minutes Saves a Life for use by dentists and other members of the dental team. The app presents step-by-step instructions for responding to anything out of the ordinary that might occur in a dental office, from an anxious patient who hyperventilates to a patient experiencing cardiac distress.

“Medical emergencies don’t usually happen in dental offices,” Rosenberg says. “They don’t usually happen in airlines or nuclear power plants, either. But we need cognitive aids for when things go bad.”

The app can even be used to direct-dial 911. In fact, Rosenberg says, the name of the app comes from the finding that 10 minutes is the average time for medical emergency personnel to arrive at a dental office after an emergency is declared.

Since it debuted in 2018, the app has been downloaded more than 100,000 times, and translated into German, Russian, and Japanese. It has approximately 900 daily users. The dental anesthesiologists were joined by physician colleagues to produce a video based on the app, since much of the content can also be used by physicians who administer moderate sedation.

The app has been incorporated into the curricula of several dental schools and is used in the clinics where patients receive care at TUSDM. “It has been really helpful for us,” says TUSDM Assistant Professor Jonathan Stephens, the school’s chief medical officer.

Tufts dental students are trained and certified in CPR and basic life support and are educated on emergency procedures both before and after they begin treating patients in the clinic in their third year, Stephens says. Practicing dentists and dental hygienists are also required to be certified in those lifesaving skills. State licensing boards require dentists to have specific emergency drugs and equipment on hand—such as inhalers for asthma, or EpiPens for allergic reactions, as well as a defibrillator for cases of cardiac arrest. These requirements vary depending on the level of sedation the practice offers, Rosenberg says.

The most common emergency in a dental setting is syncope, or fainting, most often from anxiety or fear—but it can sometimes indicate a more serious problem. While most patients recover quickly from a fainting spell, “it can be scary when you’re [a dental student] first starting out,” Stephens says. The 10 Minutes app walks users through the steps to help determine what is happening and how to proceed.

As the population ages, Rosenberg says, dentists will likely see more patients with chronic health issues that make them more susceptible to emergency complications. Dentists also see many patients who have neglected dental care due to finances or phobia, “and eventually when they do go to the dentist, a lot of them need advanced sedative techniques to get through the procedures,” he says. For them, the app can help calculate anesthesia dosages based on age and weight.

The best way patients can assist their dentist in being prepared for an emergency is by providing a medical history that’s as complete as possible, including all medications, Stephens says.

“Patients come in and we’ll start off by taking their medical history. And occasionally they’ll say, ‘Why do you need to know that? You’re just a dentist,’” he says. “We’re not asking these questions to check a box. It really does matter. And in the unlikely event that there is some kind of emergency, we’re going to be able to respond.” 

CDOCS, the world’s largest community of digital dentists and the leading provider of digital dentistry education, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Dan Butterman as its new Faculty Chair. With a distinguished career spanning three decades in the dental field, Dr. Butterman brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and vision to his new role at CDOCS, where he has already been serving as an esteemed member of the Resident Faculty since 2019. During this time, he’s taught thousands of dentists at CDOCS’s hands-on workshops [Hands-On Workshops] and traveled the world as a leading dental KOL.

His appointment marks a pivotal moment for CDOCS as it aims to expand its influence and continue its mission of transforming dental education through technology and community.

“I am incredibly honored to take on the role of Faculty Chair at CDOCS,” Dr. Butterman said. “This opportunity allows me to contribute to a community that is at the forefront of dental education. My goal is to ensure that we not only keep pace with the evolving landscape of modern dentistry but also set new benchmarks for excellence and innovation.”

Under Dr. Butterman’s leadership, CDOCS is set to embark on a well-balanced, integrated path, as his vision includes enhancing the curriculum with a focus on comprehensive education that encompasses both the technological aspects of dentistry and the critical soft skills required for practice management. Dr. Butterman emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to dental education, one that prepares practitioners not just in the technical use of digital tools but also in navigating the challenges of running a modern dental practice.

“One of the aspects I’m most excited about is developing a curriculum that reflects the complete ecosystem of the dental practice. From mastering cutting-edge digital dentistry techniques to navigating patient relations and practice management, our aim is to offer a well-rounded educational experience that supports our members in all facets of their professional development,” Dr. Butterman elaborated.

Dr. Butterman’s approach to education is rooted in the belief that a sense of community and mutual support is fundamental to the learning process. He plans to foster an environment where CDOCS members can share experiences, learn from each other, and collectively push the boundaries of what’s possible in dental practice.

“Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of passionate individuals coming together, sharing ideas, and challenging each other to think differently. That’s the culture we want to cultivate at CDOCS,” Dr. Butterman added.

To drive this innovation, he firmly believes in the importance of staying clinically active to maintain relevance in education.

“It’s critical that I continue practicing dentistry,” Dr. Butterman said. “It’s amazing to me how quickly you lose touch stepping away for a short amount of time.” This dedication ensures that CDOCS’s curriculum remains not only up to date but also grounded in practical, real-world applications.

Looking forward, Dr. Butterman is committed to expanding CDOCS’s reach and impact. His plans include the introduction of new courses and workshops designed to keep practitioners at the forefront of dental technology and patient care. In addition, he aims to strengthen the community aspect of CDOCS, building an even more vibrant and supportive network of dental professionals across the globe.

For more information about CDOCS and its programs, please visit CDOCS.com.

About CDOCS

CDOCS, a Spear company, is the world’s largest community of digital dentists and the leading provider of digital dentistry education, equipping dental professionals with the clinical training and resources to achieve modern dental excellence. Since 2006, CDOCS has empowered members through specialized educational tracks, hands-on workshops led by experienced faculty, and supported by the world’s largest community of modern dentists. Whether new to digital workflows or a seasoned practitioner, CDOCS offers membership tiers to support continuous skill development and practice growth. As the premier destination for modern dental technology education, CDOCS is committed to helping members thrive in the digital age. For more, visit CDOCS.com.

CDOCS is proud to announce Dr. Dan Butterman as their new head of faculty. A longtime member and CDOCS Mentor, Dr. Butterman will guide CDOCS and digital dental education into the future. Dr. Butterman will continue as a hands-on educator and Mentor to inspire and motivate dentists to learn and excel with the leading education provided by CDOCS.

The Chicago Dental Society (CDS) announces the relaunch of an enhanced membership benefit, the Member Advantage Program. The program has added two new partners, Safco Dental Supply and Torch Dental, who join Amazon Business, Southpoint Insurance, and Treloar & Heisel.

“We’re very excited to offer our members a suite of new benefits through the Member Advantage Program,” said CDS President Dr. David Lewis. “The CDS staff worked hard to expand the program to five dedicated partnerships, but we’re not done yet. We’ll continue to build the partnership network to provide our members access to even more benefits that complement their dental careers.”

The Member Advantage Program provides discounts and opportunities to enhance a CDS member’s career. From primary and specialty dental supply distributors to insurance plans and office supply distributors, the Member Advantage Program provides CDS members with access to exclusive product and supply discounts, inventory management tracking and insurance plans to provide members with security. To take advantage of the deals provided by Member Advantage Program partners, CDS members and associate members can visit the Member Center on CDS.org and sign up with each partner. Most Member Advantage Program partners include exclusive sign-up deals for CDS members.

“Joining CDS was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career,” said CDS member and New Dentist Board Director Dr. Sara Imtiaz. “The professional connections and friendships I’ve built through CDS are irreplaceable and have opened many doors for me. It’s incredible to have access to so many dental professionals across Chicago but also right in your neighborhood. Beyond the many networking and educational benefits a CDS membership provides, I’m excited to be able to take advantage of financial savings on products my dental team uses every day.”

The Member Advantage Program is the latest addition to a suite of benefits CDS members enjoy. A CDS membership provides members with:

• • Free registration to the Midwinter Meeting (the largest, longest-running scientific dental tradeshow in the industry)

• • Rebate for a purchase made on the exhibit floor at the Midwinter Meeting

• • Free registration for members and their dental teams at CDS Regional Meetings

• • Classified advertising discounts

• • Patient referral service

• • Mediation and peer review services

• • Subscription to the CDS Review magazine

• • Admission to exclusive networking and social events, such as the Early Career and New Dentist Networking event

• • Membership to one of the nine CDS branches for hyperlocal networking and camaraderie with like-minded colleagues

• • Access to top tier continuing education opportunities at the Midwinter Meeting, CDS Regional Meetings and CDS branch meetings

About the Chicago Dental Society

Trust a Chicago Dental Society (CDS) dentist with more than just your smile. Talk with them and you’ll see their work is an investment in not just your oral health, but your overall health. They are current on the dental trends and technology through extensive CDS continuing education programs, including the Midwinter Meeting. Ranking among Chicago’s top 20 conventions, the CDS Midwinter Meeting—one of North America’s largest exhibits of dental products and professional dentistry—typically welcomes nearly 22,000 dental professionals each year and generates more than $26 million for the local economy (according to Choose Chicago). The largest local component of the American Dental Association, the non-profit Chicago Dental Society represents dentists across the Chicago region. They’re your neighbors, friends, and community anchors. Connect with the Chicago Dental Society at cds.org, where you’ll find our easy-to-navigate Find-a-CDS Dentist search tool. Or, connect on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.

VideaHealth, the leading dental AI software company, and Henry Schein One, a leader in dental software, today announced an expanded partnership to bring AI to the dental education market through Henry Schein One cloud-based academic software, Ascend Academic. Detect AI powered and manufactured by VideaHealth is now available to Dentrix, Dentrix Ascend, and Ascend Academic customers.

Approximately 7,000 dental hygienists graduate annually, yet that number is insufficient to meet the demand from dental practices. With Detect AI powered and manufactured by VideaHealth, hygiene students will become faster, more accurate, and more efficient when reviewing radiographs, accelerating their learning curve and bringing new skills and insight to program graduates.

Jonathan Brennan, MD, DMD, MPH, associate dean of innovation and curriculum at Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH), said, “Dental AI’s positive impact in an educational setting cannot be overstated, as it offers the opportunity for students to refine their diagnostic skills before they ever see a patient. I expect that clinicians trained in school with dental AI will graduate with finer skills than ever before, with a higher degree of confidence in their treatment recommendations as well as greater diagnostic accuracy.”

VideaHealth’s investment in education will kick off with a focus on dental hygiene schools, conducted in partnership with Henry Schein One, and will provide near immediate access to Detect AI through the seamless integration with Ascend Academic. In addition to partnering on the technology integration, VideaHealth’s investment includes the creation of training modules to equip educators with the proper tools and information to best leverage dental AI in the classroom.

“Today Henry Schein One serves 80% of U.S. dental academic institutions with our axiUm solution portfolio,” said Rachel Nelson, VP, Global Academic Solutions, Henry Schein One. “As we continue to expand our presence across the dental education industry and into dental hygiene schools with Ascend Academic and Detect AI, we can further empower hygienists to utilize AI, significantly reducing dental problems through patient education and early detection.”

Students learning and training with dental AI insights can simulate patient cases and real-time feedback, enhance their interpretations and treatment planning skills before ever entering clinical practice, and help jump-start their careers. In addition, they will be able to hone their treatment recommendation skills, bolstered by sophisticated patient visualizations.

Florian Hillen, CEO of VideaHealth, said, "This is a milestone moment for the market. Educators have been asking for dental AI to help train their students, and we are proud to meet that need. Dental AI is an invaluable tool; helping future clinicians develop their skills, experience, and insight will give them the confidence to do their work well and to share those insights with patients.”

SOURCE: VideaHealth

The Executive Board and Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) recognize Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month in April. Many ABOMS Diplomates are experts in head and neck cancer, which account for about 4 percent of cancer cases in the United States. They see this month as an opportunity to educate the public.

"By educating patients about oral cancer and its signs, we can provide timely help and offer reassurance about the latest advances in reconstructive surgery, which can restore their quality of life," explained Dhafer Alsuwied, DDS.

Symptoms, risk factors, and prevention

Symptoms of head and neck cancer typically begin in the mouth, nose, and throat, and may include: persistent sore throat, lumps, sores, difficulty swallowing, or a hoarse voice. Men are about twice as likely as women to develop oral cancers; other risk factors include:

Heavy tobacco use

High alcohol consumption

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Family history of cancer

To prevent these cancers, patients should quit tobacco, limit alcohol, and consider receiving the HPV vaccine when indicated. Screening at routine dental check-ups is also key.

The expertise required to manage head and neck cancers

The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) certifies oral and maxillofacial surgeons who have proven their qualifications and expertise through education, training, and a thorough examination process. Diplomates are also required to undergo annual Certification Maintenance to prove ongoing competence.

Beyond its rigorous certification process, ABOMS also offers Certificates of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery, which indicates that a surgeon has significant skills in this specialized area and emphasizes it in their practice. Eric R. Carlson, DMD, MD, EdM, FACS explained that the education required for this specialty is rigorous.

"Aspiring oral surgeons with an interest in our subspecialty are taking on a career path that will involve numerous years of training and experience to practice at a high level. There are no shortcuts to proper training in oral/head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery, but the end result is a highly gratifying career." He added, "Participation in our subspecialty is truly a labor of love."

Patients looking for a highly qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon for their oncology team should look for this kind of specialized training and certification.

About the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) is the certifying board for the specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery in the United States. Overseen by an eight-member Board of Directors, the mission of ABOMS is to ensure that Diplomate surgeons meet our standards of training, education, and professionalism through our certification process. The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery headquarters are located at 8770 W Bryn Mawr Ave Suite 1370, Chicago, IL 60631, and can be reached by phone at (312) 642-0070 or online at www.aboms.org.