[{"id":659527303415,"title":"Pac-Dent, Inc. Acquires Ackuretta Technologies","created_at":"2025-08-28T17:05:01-07:00","body_html":"\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\"\u003eBrea, California – September 2, 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e–\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePac-Dent, Inc.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, a global manufacturing leader in preventive care, infection control,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRodin®\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edental 3D printing resins along with\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3D printing–oriented restorative materials\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, today announced the acquisition of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAckuretta Technologies\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(established in 2013), a Taiwan-based pioneer in dental laboratory and chairside 3D printing hardware. This strategic move unites two innovation leaders and accelerates Pac-Dent’s vision of delivering an\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eopen, interoperable ecosystem\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat connects world-class materials, intelligent software, and a full range of ecosystem hardware—including printers, companion devices, and workflow enablers—to make 3D printing seamless, user-friendly, and accessible for clinicians and labs worldwide.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent has made significant investments in R\u0026amp;D, partnering with universities and institutions worldwide on AI-powered dental solutions. With Ackuretta’s printer platform and ALPHA AI CAM software, Pac-Dent will deliver cutting-edge solutions for both chairside and dental laboratories, integrating workflow intelligence and advanced automation. While full design automation is still under development, Pac-Dent’s strong progress in data acquisition and workflow intelligence positions the company to set new standards in digital dentistry.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The most important aspect of this acquisition is how it amplifies our open-system vision,” said Daniel Wang, CEO of Pac-Dent. “By combining best-in-class materials, intelligent software, and versatile hardware, we are building the most accessible and adaptable digital dentistry platform on the market. Just as important, we are thrilled to welcome Ackuretta’s outstanding international team—spanning Taiwan, France, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, South America, and the Middle East. Their expertise strengthens our innovation pipeline, enhances product reliability, and expands global customer support.”\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOpen-System Commitment:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent emphasized that its ecosystem will remain open-system by design. The addition of Ackuretta provides customers with a validated in-house hardware option, but Pac-Dent will continue to support and collaborate with other open-system hardware manufacturers, with many leading dental 3D printer brands already validated and an ongoing program to expand supported platforms. Dealers and distributors can rely on Pac-Dent’s materials and workflows being validated across multiple platforms—ensuring freedom of choice, optimal clinical outcomes, and a sustainable, partner-friendly approach to digital dentistry.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCustomer Support \u0026amp; Service Readiness:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs part of the integration, Pac-Dent is preparing front-line technical support in North America for Ackuretta printers with clear escalation paths to engineering, readily available spare parts through U.S. distribution, and a quick-start knowledge base covering setup, calibration, validated resins, and common fixes. Training resources will help clinicians and labs move quickly from installation to validated production. Pac-Dent’s support organization is also being briefed to guide customers toward Rodin-validated workflows and recommended accessories, ensuring each interaction improves outcomes and efficiency.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith Ackuretta joining Pac-Dent, clinicians and labs can expect expanded service, training, and technical support, along with a faster cadence of integrated end-to-end solutions—from data acquisition, processing, and CAM, to printing, post-processing, and 3D-oriented restorative materials—all delivered through a globally scalable, partner-friendly model.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond this acquisition, Pac-Dent is advancing several complementary initiatives, including the launch of new digital workflow platforms, partnerships to strengthen design and some metal printing capabilities, and ongoing efforts in AI-driven data acquisition and chairside treatment solutions. Together, these initiatives reinforce Pac-Dent’s role as a long-term partner for both labs and clinicians in the open-system digital era.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGlobal Presence \u0026amp; Manufacturing Footprint:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent maintains its U.S. headquarters in Brea, California, across two campuses supporting corporate, R\u0026amp;D, and manufacturing activities. The company also operates an FDA-registered, ISO 13485–certified, MDSAP-audited manufacturing facility in Camarillo, California (supporting regulatory pathways for FDA and EU MDR (CE)), maintains education and lab research facilities in Fullerton and Las Vegas, is building a brand new R\u0026amp;D center in Temecula scheduled for completion in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOctober 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, and maintains large-scale manufacturing capabilities in China and Taiwan. This foundation ensures Pac-Dent can deliver innovation, compliance, education, and reliable supply at scale to partners and clinicians worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\" style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAbout Pac-Dent, Inc.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eFor over thirty-three years, Pac-Dent has served the dental community with uncompromising quality and innovation. The company’s portfolio spans preventive and infection-control solutions, restorative materials, and the award-winning Rodin™ line of dental 3D printing resins—recipient of the 2024 Cellerant Best of Class Technology Award. Pac-Dent’s investments in advanced materials, AI-enabled workflows, and open-system interoperability are redefining restorative and preventive dentistry worldwide. Learn more at\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"http:\/\/pac-dent.com\" data-linkindex=\"34\" href=\"http:\/\/pac-dent.com\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" target=\"_blank\"\u003epac-dent.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAbout Ackuretta Technologies\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAckuretta is a pioneer in dental 3D printing, known for chairside-ready printers, validated materials, and ALPHA AI CAM software that streamlines digital workflows for clinics and labs. Its ecosystem includes SOL and SOL Plus printers, CLEANI washers, and CURIE\/CURIE Plus curing units. Headquartered in Taipei, Ackuretta supports customers through a global distribution network. Learn more at \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/link.ackuretta.com\/ackuretta-home\"\u003eackuretta.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"SARA QU","user_id":39062110289,"published_at":"2025-09-02T11:27:14-07:00","updated_at":"2025-09-05T09:05:52-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":"article","handle":"pac-dent-inc-acquires-ackuretta-technologies","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2025-09-05T09:05:51-07:00","alt":null,"width":1233,"height":339,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/Ackuretta-Press-release-header_b5d2b170-c805-4dbf-a315-6eea3cdc94c2.jpg?v=1757088352"}},{"id":587350540535,"title":"Press Release: Pac-Dent Introduces Ultrasonic Insert Tips into Preventive Portfolio","created_at":"2022-04-18T17:58:26-07:00","body_html":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor Immediate Release:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMagnetostrictive Insert Tips Available in May 2022\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrea, CA\u003c\/strong\u003e – May 2, 2022 - Pac-Dent, Inc., announced the launch of the 25K and 30K magnetostrictive ultrasonic universal insert tips for their South East Autoscaler. The addition of these insert tips will broaden Pac-Dent’s growing dental portfolio, further solidifying its strong presence within the preventive space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Pac-Dent is proud to continue offering dependable legacy hygiene products to our customers. The addition of the Autoscaler has added great value to our line of preventive products, and now being able to provide the insert tip to our customers completes the package for scaling and root planing needs,” said Jacquie Sandoval, marketing manager.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeatures and benefits of the Autoscaler Ultrasonic Universal Insert Tip include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Non-slip grip for greater tactile sensitivity\u003cbr\u003e2. The inserts use a base flow water delivery\u003cbr\u003e3. Compatible with all magnetostrictive handpieces\u003cbr\u003e4. 90 Day Warranty against defects arising from faulty material or workmanship\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information on the Autoscaler Insert Tip, visit the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/pac-dent.com\/products\/autoscaler%C2%AE\" title=\"Autoscaler® Ultrasonic System (South East Instruments)\"\u003eproduct page\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout South East Instruments Autoscaler: \u003c\/strong\u003eIn 2021, South East Instruments was acquired by Pac-Dent, Inc. and joined Pac-Dent’s growing family of dental brands. Pac-Dent is committed to continuing South East Instrument’s founding goal of producing the best ultrasonic scaler right here in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Pac-Dent, Inc.\u003c\/strong\u003e: Pac-Dent, Inc. is a fast-growing international design, manufacturing, and wholesale dental product and device company. Founded in 1992, and celebrating its 30th anniversary, Pac-Dent has earned its reputation as one of the best and most reliable in the dental industry. Pac-Dent focuses on delivering the highest quality, technologically advanced, and innovative products in the preventive, teeth whitening, endodontic, and infection control segments. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContact\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJacqueline Sandoval\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMarketing Manager\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"mailto:jacqueline.sandoval@pac-dent.com\"\u003ejacqueline.sandoval@pac-dent.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e909-839-0888\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"SARA QU","user_id":39062110289,"published_at":"2022-04-18T17:58:26-07:00","updated_at":"2022-05-02T16:21:07-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":"","handle":"press-release-pac-dent-introduces-ultrasonic-insert-tips-into-preventive-product-portfolio","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2022-04-18T18:01:14-07:00","alt":"","width":1883,"height":1130,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/Pac-Dent_HQ_02.jpg?v=1650330074"}},{"id":586775953655,"title":"Press Release: Pac-Dent, Inc. Acquires South East Instruments, L.L.C.","created_at":"2021-11-22T12:18:42-08:00","body_html":"\u003cspan\u003ePac-Dent is excited to announce that it has acquired South East Instruments L.L.C. (SEI), the manufacturer and servicer of the Autoscaler®.\u003c\/span\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"SARA QU","user_id":39062110289,"published_at":"2021-11-22T12:19:28-08:00","updated_at":"2021-11-22T12:20:10-08:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":"","handle":"press-release-pac-dent-inc-acquires-south-east-instruments-l-l-c","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2021-11-22T12:18:42-08:00","alt":"","width":2828,"height":4000,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/SEI_Press_Release.png?v=1637612323"}},{"id":557463961779,"title":"Press Release: Pac-Dent, Inc. Acquires JS Dental Manufacturing, Inc.","created_at":"2021-09-27T10:17:57-07:00","body_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor Immediate Release:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePac-Dent, Inc. Acquires JS Dental Manufacturing, Inc.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrea, CA– September 24, 2021 – Pac-Dent, Inc. announced that it has acquired JS Dental Manufacturing, Inc., an endodontic manufacturing company. This acquisition will further expand Pac-Dent’s endodontic portfolio in an effort to better serve their network of dental dealers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Our acquisition of JS Dental Manufacturing, Inc. will allow us to expand the selection of endodontic products we are able to offer our dealers. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this acquisition makes on our business, as well as our business partners.” said Leika Bishop, Senior Manager, Sales \u0026amp; Marketing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Pac-Dent, Inc.\u003c\/strong\u003e: Pac-Dent, Inc. is a fast-growing international design, manufacturing, and wholesale dental product and device company. Founded in 1992, Pac-Dent has earned the reputation as one of the best and most reliable in the dental industry. Pac-Dent focuses on delivering the highest quality, technologically advanced, and innovative products in the preventative, teeth whitening, endodontic, and infection control segments. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContact:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeika Bishop\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSenior Manager, Sales \u0026amp; Marketing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"mailto:leika.bishop@pac-dent.com\"\u003eleika.bishop@pac-dent.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e909-839-0888\u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"SARA QU","user_id":39062110289,"published_at":"2021-09-27T10:17:57-07:00","updated_at":"2021-09-27T10:45:28-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":"","handle":"press-release-pac-dent-inc-acquires-js-dental-manufacturing-inc","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2021-09-27T10:45:27-07:00","alt":"","width":2048,"height":1152,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/1612809185692.jpg?v=1632764728"}},{"id":33705361489,"title":"Expert Interview Series: Pac-Dent Senior Executive of Pac-Dent.com on 2017's Dental Tech Trends","created_at":"2019-09-17T11:53:53-07:00","body_html":"\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent Senior Executive, the Executive Vice President of Pac-Dent, was interviewed about dental tech trends by Lou Donato from Watkin Dental Associates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Pac-Dent has been providing high-quality, innovative dental products since 1992. First of all, what inspired you to start Pac-Dent 25 years ago? What are some ways you’ve fulfilled your initial vision, in that time\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent was originally founded to provide dental products that are better, faster and more economical to the practitioner and patients. Over the years, we have fulfilled this vision by innovating and creating our own intellectual properties, and continuously improving and expanding our product lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Pac-Dent is always evolving, in line with your customer’s needs and with new technology hitting the markets. What are some of the most consistent dental needs for your customers over the past few years?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe started in infection control and preventive, and expanded to endodontics, restorations, and whitening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. Technology is widely influencing every single industry, including dental practices. One trend that is predicted to grow in 2017 is the rise of digital imaging, using CAD\/CAM technology. With more than 20% of offices using digital impression technology, why is this trend so influential, and do you think it will continue to spread?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, all data indicate the continuous growth of digital impression, although the growth has been slow. We anticipate that the VPS\/Polyether impression technologies will continue to be used for at least 10 to 15 more years. Data security is another technological trend that is predicted to become more important in 2017, following high-profile data breaches from huge companies like Target. First off, what are some ways that customer’s information can be made more secure, and why is that important? For practices, what are some ways they can let their customers know their information is secure?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dental service providers should use encryption for all the data that goes through their websites (SSL), and set up automatic periodic scans. The web portal or platform should be built on more robust technical foundations, such as Drupal or Joomla, instead of WordPress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne way to let the customer know their information is secure is to prominently display encryption icons and SSL certificates whenever data is being collected or transferred.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. Keeping in contact with patients is another of 2017’s dental tech trends that will continue to rise. What are some different ways that increased communication between dentists and patients can help people keep track of their appointments and find deals? What are some of the benefits of having reminders beamed directly to your pocket or purse?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA trend that has been continuously gaining popularity is utilizing automated appointment reminders, email campaigns, and reputation management to always stay on top of patients’ minds. Services like DemandForce, Constant Contact, InfusionSoft and Salesforce are available for the practices that are willing to make the move.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe biggest benefit is to reduce the number of no shows while enabling practices to do parallel marketing at the same time, the higher level of engagement also elicit higher patient loyalty and possibly better online reviews.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5. Dental implants are becoming increasingly available, with prices dropping all the time. What are some reasons implants are gaining so much popularity? How can a patient decide if implants are right for them?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDental implants are popular because they last longer and are more comfortable (after healing) and natural-looking than dentures or bridges. Once any healing from having a dental implant is finished, the implant looks, feels and can be treated like a natural tooth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA patient needs to decide between paying more up front for a permanent solution, or continuously pay for other solutions over time. Above all, the patient should look into minimally invasive procedures first before considering any implants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6. Lasers are becoming more prevalent, even in smaller practices, and not just for tissue removal. What are some of the implications of more widespread laser usage in the dental industry? What are some other things lasers can be used for, other than dental surgery?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince lasers cause less bleeding and promote faster healing, there really isn’t much downside of using a laser. With the right power level, lasers can also be used for pain management and teeth whitening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7. 3D Imaging has some exciting possibilities for dentistry, including planning for implants. What are some other possible uses for 3D imaging? Do you think this is a fad, or will this trend continue to grow?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther than planning for implants, 3D dental imaging is also used for diagnosis. This is definitely not a fad and is here to stay for a long time. Being able to see the mouth in three dimensions allows the dentist to better plan and more effectively formulate an approach to treat dental conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8. With more dental practices balancing more data than ever, as well as working with multiple practitioners, cloud storage is becoming more and more important. How can a patient know if a practice’s cloud storage is secure, and why does that matter?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA patient should make sure that the Cloud storage is hosted on a reputable company’s servers (such as Amazon Cloud) and havs been in the business for a number of years. Any Cloud storage can still be hacked, such as the well-publicized attack on Apple’s iCloud, so it’s crucially important to also have local data backups in case of outage or cyber attacks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e9. The Internet Of Things continues to be influential, even if tech forecasters are already calling for its decline. Dentistry is incorporating IoT, as well, like with the LM Dental Tracking System, which records, tracks, and verifies usage of different dental products. What are some potential uses this data and insights can yield, for patients and dentists alike? Will this trend continue to spread, do you think?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data collected by Dental Tracking Systems provides a way to accurately track the instruments and supplies in order to contain costs and manage the sterilization process. It does effectively improve inventory management, increase patient safety by making sure every instrument is sterilized properly, reduce instrument loss and misuse, but ultimately, it comes down to the user willing to put in the time and effort to utilize it to its full potential, which has to be a decision made from top down. This may be still at a very novel stage and caters to only a niche market at this time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"Sleepless Media","user_id":34506965073,"published_at":"2020-05-06T17:43:00-07:00","updated_at":"2020-05-06T17:46:31-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":null,"handle":"it-allows-designers-to-focus-on-getting-the-graphical-elements","tags":"Aug_2019","image":{"created_at":"2020-05-06T17:45:59-07:00","alt":"","width":618,"height":238,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/Sample_Img_T_41.jpg?v=1588812359"}},{"id":31829753937,"title":"Dentsply to Acquire Sirona Dental for $5.5 Billion","created_at":"2019-08-29T23:39:00-07:00","body_html":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTwo of the biggest makers of dental products said on Tuesday that they had agreed to combine, betting on bigger scale.\u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"PacDent Admin","user_id":34506965073,"published_at":"2019-09-11T12:07:23-07:00","updated_at":"2019-09-11T12:07:23-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":null,"handle":"dentsply-to-acquire-sirona-dental-for-5-5-billion","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2019-08-30T11:53:03-07:00","alt":"","width":1000,"height":715,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/AdobeStock_227422015_Preview.jpeg?v=1567191183"}},{"id":31829721169,"title":"What Is Infection Control?","created_at":"2019-08-29T23:35:42-07:00","body_html":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eInfection control is a set of recommended safety precautions that dentists implement to protect their patients and staff in. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"PacDent Admin","user_id":34506965073,"published_at":"2019-09-11T12:07:23-07:00","updated_at":"2021-09-27T14:54:42-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":"","handle":"what-is-infection-control","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2021-09-27T14:54:41-07:00","alt":"","width":1200,"height":400,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/banners_blue.jpg?v=1632779682"}},{"id":33442037841,"title":"Bacteria-Fighting 3-D-Printed Teeth Could Affect Dentistry","created_at":"2019-09-14T10:40:34-07:00","body_html":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe latest 3-D printing innovation could change the way you think about your annual visit to the dentist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's because Dutch researchers at the University of Groningen are working on the creation of a 3-D-printed tooth made of an antimicrobial plastic that kills the type of bacteria responsible for tooth decay on contact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine teeth that remain white and pristine over time, without all the accumulation of bacteria that cause dental problems. While the thought of having a 3-D-printed tooth inside your mouth might not sound so great, is it really any worse than dealing with the constant toothache from a decaying tooth?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the Dutch researchers, the key step in developing the bacteria-fighting tooth was being able to find the right material to put inside the 3-D printer. In this case, the researchers embedded antimicrobial quaternary ammonium salts inside existing dental resin polymers. Once this mix is put into a 3-D printer, it can be hardened with ultraviolet light and used to print out 3-D replacement teeth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo test the bacteria-fighting tooth in a lab environment, the researchers coated the material with human saliva and exposed it to the bacterium that causes tooth decay. The anti-bacterial tooth killed over 99 percent of all bacteria and showed no signs of being harmful to human cells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, there is still a long way to go before this 3-D-printing scenario becomes a reality. The Dutch 3-D-printing innovation, for example, is still not ready for clinical trials and has not yet been tested inside a human mouth. Moreover, it's not clear how the tooth might react to constant brushing and the application of something as simple as toothpaste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite these obstacles, Andreas Herrmann of the University of Groningen in the Netherlands suggests that, \"It's a medical product with a foreseeable application in the near future, much less time than developing a new drug.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's room for optimism because the role of 3-D printing within the field of dentistry shows signs of taking off. In early March, 3-D printing company Stratasys unveiled a high-end dental 3-D printer, called the Objet260 Dental Selection, capable of printing out realistic teeth, gums and nerves in order to create life-like models for dental specialists. The printer uses the company's proprietary PolyJet dental materials, promising \"gum-like softness and color,\" a \"range of natural tooth shades\" and even nerve canals for dental models so realistic that practitioners can use them to model complicated dental procedures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, those are just dental models and not intended for clinical trials. However, it's hard to deny the growing role of 3-D printers in medicine and dentistry. Using 3-D printers, there are ongoing attempts to \"bio-print\" human bone, skin, tissue and even organs (think kidneys and livers). According to research firm IDTechEx, the dental and medical market for 3-D printers could grow in size to $867 million by 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bigger (albeit highly futuristic) context is that 3-D printers are leading to what can only be called a \"replacement parts for humans\" model. Just as cars have parts that need to be replaced after a certain number of miles, humans also have parts that need to be replaced after a certain number of years. That's especially true as people live longer than ever before. Think of 3-D-printed teeth as just small replacement parts that can be customized for your mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the March 2015 TED Conference in Vancouver, there was even a suggestion that the ability to 3-D-print replacement teeth within minutes - while you wait in the dentist chair - might be soon possible. Joseph DeSimone, the chief executive of the 3-D printing company Carbon3D and a professor of chemistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, suggested in his TED Talk it might be possible to 3-D-print a tooth in less than 10 minutes. He refers to this innovation as \"point-of-sale manufacturing\" for dentists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's the promise, in many ways, of an exponential digital technology such as 3-D printing. As the technology improves, it's possible to see 10x, even 100x, improvements in speed. What once took hours or more, can now be accomplished within the space of a few minutes. That increase of speed, coupled with the promise of being able to make perfectly-fitted teeth that have been customized for each person's mouth, makes it almost a certainty that you might one day see a 3-D printer next to all the other tools and instruments in your dentist's office.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"Jack Li","user_id":39062175825,"published_at":"2018-04-24T10:40:00-07:00","updated_at":"2020-05-07T10:36:08-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":null,"handle":"eget-velit-aliquet-sagittis-id","tags":"","image":{"created_at":"2019-09-14T10:40:41-07:00","alt":"","width":1000,"height":667,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/AdobeStock_153161627_Preview.jpeg?v=1568482841"}},{"id":33442136145,"title":"The Common Misconception about the everyday disposable Prophy Angle","created_at":"2019-09-14T10:41:43-07:00","body_html":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI probably spend a bit too much time on social media, yet it provides some useful insight into the mindset of our profession.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome topics stimulate conversation, some are more for fun and share humor only we understand and others make the circuit every few months almost like a pattern. I find the latter the most interesting. It appears some questions are not adequately addressed or not answered in a way that satisfies our curious minds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome dental professionals want to read the research before making a decision on a topic and others try to work it out with common sense. The third group uses a combination of both which is more evidence based than either of the previous groups. Practitioners who can read and understand the research and utilize those facts in a common sense manner (practical evidence) tend to have the best solution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca title=\"Lori\" href=\"http:\/\/lorylaughter.com\/about_us.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/pac-dent.com\/images\/blogs\/IMG_5299.jpg\" alt=\"Lory L\" width=\"200\" align=\"left\" hspace=\"5\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eIn dentistry we decrease the chance of creating or spreading infections by using sterile items. Instruments, hand pieces and ultrasonic tips are sterilized between patients by a process that kills microorganisms. If it is critical these items be sterile prior to introduction into the oral cavity, why is the same not true for single use items such as saliva ejectors, burs and prophy angles?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA study published in The Dental Advisor – March 2012 demonstrated unsterile pre-packaged burs showed bacterial colony growth when cultured on blood agar plates. In contrast, pre-sterilized burs showed no bacterial growth. During the study burs were exposed to a broth containing 5% sheep’s blood for 30 seconds. Unsterile pre-packaged burs, pre-sterilized packaged burs and previously used burs sterilized by autoclaving were tested. The autoclaved burs served as a control. The study concluded that contamination of pre-packaged burs is possible and infection control can be maintained by using pre-sterilized burs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDisposable prophy angles come pre-packaged, but never pre-sterilized. The prophy angle and cup come into contact with oral tissues during the polishing procedure. This is also a time when gingiva may be inflamed and more prone to bacterial attack.  A sterile prophy angle makes sense and is also more in line with infection control protocols for other dental items\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePac-Dent makes disposable, single use prophy angles that are sterilized after packaging. The angles are Gamma-irradiated and guaranteed sterile. Under independent laboratory testing, the surfaces of Pac-Dent's Sterile Mini Disposable Prophy Angles (DPAs) were shown to be completely free of pathogens.  Given the potential for existing inflammation in gingival tissue and trauma that may occur during scaling and root planing, a sterile prophy angle could help promote a better healing environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sterile Mini 90 and Mini Ergo DPAs from Pac-Dent have several other advantages. Beyond sterilization, the angles are smooth running and quiet. They also have a small, yet powerful head that increases visibility and provides for improved access. The gear and drive shaft technology from PacDent has been proven in performance. The angles are 100% latex-free.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.products.pac-dent.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.products.pac-dent.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a future for Gamma-irradiated single-use products in dentistry. Look around your operatory work environment – you will notice other items that come into contact with the oral cavity but are not sterile. Saliva ejectors, fluoride trays, cotton rolls and cotton roll holders are all potentially contaminated items common during dental hygiene treatment. Imagine the peace of mind possible in telling your patients that EVERYTHING your put in their mouth is pathogen free.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you know your disposable prophy angle most likely is not sterile? Shouldn't it be sterile considering your hand piece and other hand instruments are sterilized prior to use? Something to consider on both the research and common sense fronts for infection control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFebruary 25, 2016 10:38AM by: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/lorylaughter.com\/about_us.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eLory Laughter\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","blog_id":32681623633,"author":"Sleepless Media","user_id":34506965073,"published_at":"2016-06-25T21:00:00-07:00","updated_at":"2020-05-06T18:06:33-07:00","summary_html":"","template_suffix":null,"handle":"if-you-are-going-to-use-a-passage-of-lorem-ipsum","tags":"Aug_2019, Marketing","image":{"created_at":"2019-09-14T10:43:23-07:00","alt":"","width":1000,"height":667,"src":"\/\/pac-dent.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/AdobeStock_182824560_Preview.jpeg?v=1568483003"}}]