Marty Jablow DMD, Dental News and Technology

Komet USA Introduces EnDrive Endodontic Motor Designed for Consistent Working Length and Predictable Root Canal Treatment

2026-05-21T11:10:00.005-04:00

New endodontic motor provides continuous working length measurement, supports safer instrumentation, and works with all file systems

Komet USA announced the launch of EnDrive, a wireless endodontic motor designed to maintain consistent working length, reduce instrumentation risk, and support predictable root canal treatment.

Many endodontic motors require separate devices, provide inconsistent working length measurements, or limit file choice, creating inefficiencies and increasing clinical risk. EnDrive was developed to address these challenges by supporting the way dentists already practice while making root canal treatment more predictable.

“EnDrive represents our commitment to simplifying complex endodontic procedures while maintaining the highest standards of care,” said Dr. Satya Nadimpalli, Komet USA Endodontic Product Manager. “By focusing on real-world clinical pain points, we’ve created a solution that integrates seamlessly into everyday practice.”

EnDrive provides continuous working length measurement during instrumentation with an integrated apex locator, helping dentists maintain control throughout canal preparation without switching between devices. Visual indicators and apex-based auto functions support precision near the apex, while an electrically insulated contra-angle helps reduce false readings. This continuous measurement supports consistent canal preparation and helps reduce the risk of over- or under-instrumentation.

To help reduce the risk of file separation, EnDrive features intelligent torque control with real-time visual feedback, along with auto-stop and auto-reverse functions that activate before critical stress levels are reached. These features help dentists recognize and manage torsional stress, supporting controlled, predictable shaping across a range of canal anatomies.

EnDrive supports all rotary and reciprocating file systems, with preset torque and speed values stored directly in the motor. Built-in file libraries and customizable sequences allow dentists to continue using their preferred files, simplify setup, and adapt their approach based on each case.

The motor is designed to minimize workflow interruptions with a cordless, battery-powered main unit and handpiece, along with an intuitive touchscreen interface that simplifies setup and operation.

By providing continuous working length measurement with real-time feedback, supporting safer instrumentation, and working with nearly all file systems, EnDrive supports efficient root canal treatment with consistent control throughout the procedure.

For more information about EnDrive or to request a demo, visit bit.ly/EnDrive or contact your local Komet sales representative.

About Komet USA

Dentists and lab technicians choose Komet for instruments they can rely on every day. Built to perform consistently and support reliable outcomes, Komet products are developed with direct input from dental professionals to meet the high standards dentists hold for their practice.

For over 100 years, Komet has been a global leader in the production of precision dental instruments, including burs, discs, diamonds, endodontic files, and more. The company serves dental professionals in more than 100 countries and operates in the United States as Komet USA, supplying dental practices and laboratories directly from its manufacturing facility in Lemgo, Germany.

Komet USA’s headquarters are in Fort Mill, South Carolina. For more information, visit kometusa.com or call 888-KOMET-USA.

Archy Launches Native AI Clinical Documentation Tool

2026-05-20T10:38:00.006-04:00

Archy Scribe listens to appointments in the background and generates clinical notes using patient context already in the system, fills custom templates, and charts perio by voice.

Archy, a dental practice management system, today announced Archy Scribe, an AI-powered clinical documentation solution built directly into the Archy platform. Unlike standalone AI scribes that connect to a practice’s PMS through integrations, Archy Scribe operates natively inside the system, with direct access to the patient chart, treatment history, and planned procedures before recording begins.

Because Archy Scribe starts inside the PMS, it can generate notes informed by the patient’s medical history, completed treatments, and care plan without requiring clinicians to restate information the system already has. There is no integration to configure and no separate vendor to manage.

DESIGNED FOR CLINICAL WORKFLOWS

Dentists often finish notes after hours, reconstructing appointments from memory. Hygienists performing perio charting frequently move between the patient and the computer or rely on an assistant to enter findings in real time.

Archy Scribe is designed to reduce both burdens. Clinicians can record the visit and receive a complete clinical note, either as a SOAP note or mapped to the practice’s custom templates. During perio exams, clinicians can speak findings aloud and have Scribe chart them directly into the patient record.

“Dentists did not go to dental school to write notes at 9 p.m. We built Archy Scribe so clinicians can complete documentation before they leave the office and trust that the record reflects what actually happened, not what they are trying to remember hours later.”
— Jon Rat, CEO, Archy

At launch, Archy Scribe includes AI-generated SOAP notes from recorded appointments, auto-population of custom clinical note templates, and hands-free voice perio charting.

Archy Scribe is the first in a planned set of AI agents Archy intends to introduce this year. Planned offerings include Archy Revenue for insurance claims processing, Archy Verify for insurance benefits verification, and Archy Connect for patient communications.

EARLY FEEDBACK

Archy Scribe has been in beta with dental practices since late 2025. One beta clinician reported cutting note-writing time in half.

“Writing clinical notes used to be the part of my day I would put off. Archy Scribe has cut that time in half, sometimes more, and the quality of my notes has improved.” — Dr. Lauren Koch, Avondale Dental Studio

ABOUT ARCHY

Archy is a dental practice management system built for modern dental practices. The platform combines scheduling, charting, imaging, billing, patient communications, and AI-powered clinical documentation in one system. Archy serves dental practices of all sizes across the United States.

For more information, visit archy.com.

Medit Launches New Orthodontic Business Division

2026-05-19T10:37:00.005-04:00

Medit Corp., a global leader in digital dentistry solutions, today announced the establishment of its Global Orthodontic Business Division and the acquisition of Progressive Orthodontics, a leading orthodontic education institution headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California, through its U.S. subsidiary, Medit USA Inc.

This marks Medit’s most significant strategic expansion into the orthodontic segment to date, integrating its digital scanning and software capabilities with a globally recognized clinical education platform.

“This acquisition and the launch of our Global Orthodontic Business Division represent a defining moment for Medit. We are not simply entering the orthodontic space; we are committing to reshaping it. Progressive Orthodontics brings a legacy of clinical excellence and an unparalleled educator network that, combined with Medit’s innovation in software, creates a force that will redefine how orthodontic care is learned, practiced, and delivered worldwide.” — Han Ryu, CEO, Medit

The newly established Global Orthodontic Business Division will serve as Medit’s central platform for orthodontic products, services, and education. Backed by Medit’s industry-leading 3D scanning technology and AI-driven dental software platforms, the division is designed to accelerate the adoption of fully digital workflows by delivering integrated solutions that enhance treatment precision, improve operational efficiency, and elevate the overall patient experience.

The division will oversee Medit’s complete orthodontic portfolio, now complemented by the clinical knowledge and practitioner community cultivated by Progressive Orthodontics. This portfolio includes the Medit Orthodontic Suite, a digital platform for simulation, treatment planning, and case design, as well as Medit Aligners, an end-to-end clear aligner solution. Both offerings are currently available in the United States, with broader global availability planned. Founded more than 40 years ago, Progressive Orthodontics is widely recognized for its clinical training programs and has educated tens of thousands of practitioners across more than 60 countries. Its curriculum emphasizes practical, case-based learning across diagnosis, biomechanics, and treatment execution and has established a strong reputation for advancing clinical standards in orthodontics.

Under Medit’s ownership, Progressive Orthodontics will continue its world-class seminar and training programs while expanding its SmileStream planning and hardware offerings. Its curriculum will also be progressively integrated with Medit’s digital solutions to create a more unified clinical and technological learning experience.

The Newport Beach, California, office of Medit USA Inc. will serve as the headquarters of the Global Orthodontic Business Division and will function as a hub for product development, clinical collaboration, and practitioner education across the Americas.

“Joining the Medit family is the natural next chapter for Progressive Orthodontics. For decades, we have been committed to one purpose: elevating the art and science of orthodontics through education. Now, with the resources, technology, and global reach of Medit behind us, we can extend that mission to every corner of the world and equip the next generation of clinicians with both the knowledge and the digital tools to excel.” — Miles McGann, CEO, Progressive Orthodontics

The establishment of the Global Orthodontic Business Division reflects Medit’s broader strategy to expand its digital dentistry ecosystem beyond scanning hardware into integrated clinical workflows. By combining technology, education, and practitioner networks, Medit is positioning itself to accelerate the adoption of digital orthodontics and strengthen its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.

About Medit

Medit is a global digital dentistry company headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, and a recognized pioneer in 3D intraoral scanning technology and digital software solutions. With an international presence spanning more than 190 countries, Medit serves dental professionals and dental laboratories with innovative, accessible, and open-platform digital tools. Medit’s mission is to make digital dentistry available to every dental professional worldwide.

About Progressive Orthodontics

Progressive Orthodontics, headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California, is one of the world’s leading orthodontic continuing education providers. For decades, PO has delivered comprehensive, clinically focused training programs to tens of thousands of dental professionals in more than 60 countries.

Its programs are internationally recognized for empowering dentists to deliver exceptional orthodontic care through proven clinical methodologies and progressive educational frameworks.

During AAPD 2026: CaviSense™ Showcasing its 10-Second Chairside Test for Active Demineralization in Pediatric Patients

2026-05-18T20:20:31.587-04:00

Company Will Also Provide an Early Preview of its Full-Mouth Active Demineralization Detection Tray System

Leading Pediatric Dentist, Adam Silevitch, DMD will explain his success with CaviSense, Saturday 11:00AM, May 23^rd, in CaviSense Booth #104

Cambridge, MA – May 18, 2026 – CaviSense Inc., a Harvard/Tufts spin-out and developer of a radiation-free diagnostic technology for active tooth demineralization. CaviSense will be returning as an exhibitor to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) Annual Session, May 21–24 in Las Vegas.

At Booth #104, CaviSense will be providing live chairside demonstrations of its 10-second diagnostic sensor designed to identify interproximal active demineralization before lesions become radiographically apparent.

In addition, the company will be previewing its new and revolutionary tray system designed to provide comprehensive screening for localized active tooth demineralization of the entire dentition in 30 seconds.

According to Dr. Gili Naveh, founder of CaviSense. “Today with our CaviSense single point sensor and our upcoming, full mouth tray system, we’re rapidly

shifting the caries management paradigm. We’re enabling detection to extend beyond the four walls of the dental office and into home testing. Clinicians can now detect the early stages of caries and intervene earlier, when minimally invasive treatments are most effective.”

The CaviSense single point sensor and full mouth tray system both integrate seamlessly into the pediatric office workflow, with no radiation exposure and without invasive procedures - important considerations for both clinicians and parents.

“Anything we introduce into our pediatric operatories has to be fast, kid friendly, and clinically meaningful,” said Dr. Adam Silevitch, DMD, pediatric dentist and early CaviSense adopter. “This technology checks all three boxes. It enables me to identify active acid challenges in specific areas, and have a much more precise, visual conversation with parents and their children.”

Dr. Silevitch will be making a special appearance at CaviSense booth #104 on Saturday, May 23^rd, at 11AM to explain how CaviSense transformed his pediatric practice and enabled him to boost revenue by increasing case acceptance and positive outcomes of minimally invasive treatments.

During the AAPD Annual Session, CaviSense will also promote its Lunch & Learn program, inviting pediatric practices to schedule post-meeting, virtual lunch & learn sessions designed to educate the entire team on the benefits of early caries detection with CaviSense. Schedule a Lunch & Learn here: https://bit.ly/CaviSenseLearning

About CaviSense

CaviSense develops advanced diagnostic technologies to improve the early detection and management of dental caries. Its patented chairside sensor and upcoming full mouth tray system identify localized cariogenic conditions and active tooth demineralization in seconds, enabling clinicians to intervene earlier and deliver minimally invasive care.

References:
1. CDC Oral Health Surveillance Report
2. NIDCR Dental Caries Data

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Not All Bone Grafting Plugs Are Created Equal: Why OsteoGen™ Remains the Proven Choice for Socket Preservation

2026-05-18T15:27:00.000-04:00

The OsteoGen Plug® is the original and still the best clinically proven composite grafting plug

Photomicrograph of an OsteoGen bioactive crystal

Like virtually every practice in the United States, you have experienced patients who have presented with teeth that need to be extracted due to any number of reasons. With each of these extractions, there is the opportunity to prevent an already catastrophic situation from getting worse. Socket preservation has been a recommended treatment at the time of extraction, yet many doctors do not routinely perform this procedure.

If you are already performing this type of procedure, you may be asking why someone would not do it? The answer has historically been easy: the procedure has required the use of a grafting particulate, some sort of barrier or membrane, and then sutures to hold everything in place. For some, this is too much.

In 2014, the OsteoGen Plug® was born, and with it a whole new way to preserve a socket entered the profession. It was simple, easy, and inexpensive. These plugs were so successful that around 2024 new grafting “plugs” emerged onto the marketplace. But be careful, as these plugs are not the same.

OsteoGen Plugs® are the only composite grafting plug that has Bioactive Crystal Technology (BCT). BCT describes the ability of the biomimetic OsteoGen™ crystals to actively influence the peri-defect area by providing Ca⁺, PO⁴ and OH⁻ ions in the correct physiologic levels to positively influence the regeneration of bone in the socket.

The matrix of OsteoGen™ crystals and Type I bovine collagen prevents fibroblastic downgrowth at the top of the socket, thereby removing the need for a membrane or barrier in most cases. How can it get any easier than that?

Most of the new plugs on the market are markedly different. First, their mineral makeup is carbonated apatite, a form of hydroxyapatite (HA) created under higher temperatures that produces a specific type of mineral. Chemically, a carbonate group replaces the OH⁻, and the sintering makes for a dense material, like a ceramic. What does this mean? The graft material will take longer to break down and increases the possibility of encapsulation rather than complete resorption. If it does resorb, according to the manufacturer, it takes more than 6 months to be ready for an implant. Contrast this with an OsteoGen Plug® which allows for implant placement in 4–6 months. With these carbonated plugs, it is also recommended that a membrane be used if primary closure cannot be obtained.

OsteoGen Plug

Sintering makes for a very dense material that is more difficult to visualize radiographically, unlike OsteoGen™, which is radiolucent upon placement, with the grafted area becoming radiopaque once new bone has formed.

OsteoGen Plugs® are designed to be trimmed to fit sockets with multiple roots, and unlike the other plugs, they do not fall apart or become “gooey” when hydrated. Considering the many alternatives with carbonated apatite plugs, the choice is clear: the original OsteoGen Plug®, with over 2.5 million placements, has a proven track record that speaks for itself.

For more information, visit osteogen.com.

3Shape Dx Software Gains FDA Clearance

2026-05-15T10:49:00.000-04:00

3Shape today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted FDA clearance for its Dx Software following a review completed on April 10, 2026.

The 510(k) Premarket Notification allows Dx (R1) software to be commercially available in the United States for use by qualified dental professionals in dental clinics to aid in the diagnosis of key oral health conditions and the assessment of changes in teeth and gingiva in adult patients.

“I’m excited that we can now bring this transformative dental solution to doctors and patients across the United States,” says 3Shape CEO Jacob Paulsen. “Receiving FDA 510(k) clearance for Dx underscores our commitment to responsible innovation and to delivering digital solutions that meet the highest clinical and regulatory standards. With Dx software, dental professionals gain a powerful new way to communicate more clearly with patients about their oral health and treatment needs.”

The FDA clearance applies to both versions of 3Shape’s Dx software: Dx Plus and Dx Standard. Exclusively compatible with 3Shape TRIOS 6 scans, Dx Plus is an AI-assistive software that aids in the detection of key oral health conditions, including surface and proximal caries, plaque, tooth wear, and gingival recession. The Dx Standard software can help dentists engage patients by manually tracking and quantifying changes to their dentition. It is compatible with all 3Shape TRIOS models except TRIOS Core.

Dx supports routine checkups and can save time when preparing for a patient’s visit. Using Dx, dentists can visualize key oral health conditions with their patients on screen and monitor them over time. Dx Plus visualizations turn clinical findings into clear, intuitive visuals that help patients better understand their diagnosis, build trust with their clinician, and feel more confident in recommended treatment plans.

The FDA clearance means that Dx software can now be marketed and sold to dental professionals in the U.S. Since 2025, the Dx software has been sold and used by clinicians across multiple international markets, including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, and Canada.

3Shape’s Dx software is available in the U.S. starting today. Please contact your reseller or 3Shape representative for purchase information. Eligible customers can go to webshop.3shape.com to start a trial.

Videa Launches Ambient Intelligence, Extending Voice AI from Documentation to Practice Insights

2026-05-14T13:17:06.079-04:00

New category of conversational intelligence builds on Videa’s integrated AI platform and advances leadership in voice AI for dentistry

Boston, Mass., May 12, 2026 — Videa, the most adopted dental AI platform, today announced Ambient Intelligence, a new category of conversational intelligence designed to help practices learn from patient-provider exchanges during care. Built on Videa’s broader AI platform spanning imaging, clinical workflows, and voice solutions, Ambient Intelligence transforms conversations into actionable insights that improve care quality, practice performance, and operational efficiency. Ambient Intelligence is built specifically for dental practices and designed to help teams better understand patterns across discussions, case presentations, and other patient interactions. The platform helps practices gain a clearer understanding of what resonates with patients, where communication may be breaking down, and how teams can better respond to common concerns and fears.

“Imagine a dental practice where each conversation helps make the next appointment more impactful: providers get sharper with every case, and the entire team has more context to support the patient the best way possible and deliver better care,” said Florian Hillen, founder and CEO of Videa. “That is the opportunity we see with Ambient Intelligence. Voice in dentistry can do much more than document a visit. It can help practices learn from everyday interactions and turn those moments into insight that improves care.”

The initial focus for Ambient Intelligence is helping practices understand which approaches are helping patients move forward with care, including how providers explain treatment options and how patients respond. Over time, the same conversational layer is expected to unlock a wider range of practice intelligence, including:

Where patients need more clarity to understand diagnoses, treatment options, and next steps
How providers explain findings, recommendations, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes
Opportunities to improve patient clarity, confidence, and follow-through
Variations in treatment conversations across providers, locations, or visit types

“The value of Ambient Intelligence comes down to two things: conversion and hospitality,” said Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend. “Whether it is coaching a provider on ways to connect better with patients or identifying patterns that impact case acceptance, nothing else gives us that window into the room. It is invaluable.”

In the first six months following the launch of Voice Notes, Videa has generated 30,000 notes from over 22,500 hours of recorded audio across hundreds of practices, reflecting growing demand for voice technology across the dental practice.

As part of this expansion in voice, Voice Perio is now available for practices using Dentrix Core, Dentrix Ascend, and OpenDental, allowing hygienists to document pocket depths, bleeding, recession and mobility hands-free. Together with Voice Notes, that availability extends Videa’s voice capabilities across more of the dental practice.

Ambient Intelligence is live today for select Voice Notes customers, with a waitlist opening May 12 and broader availability planned by the end of 2026.

About Videa

Videa is transforming dentistry with AI-powered solutions that reduce complexity across the dental workflow and help practices elevate care standards, improve productivity, and drive real business value. Videa, a complete Dental AI platform, supports every aspect of dental care, from diagnostics and workflows to analytics and revenue optimization. Used by over 90,000 clinicians across more than 60 leading DSOs, Videa’s FDA-cleared AI analyzes over 500 million X-rays annually, delivering trusted insights that power consistent, high-quality care. Headquartered in Boston and backed by leading investors, Videa is advancing the future of dental care through responsible and real-world AI. Learn more at videa.ai and follow us on LinkedIn.

TePe Oral Hygiene Products and the Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology strengthen their collaboration to inspire good oral health

2026-05-14T10:22:00.006-04:00

TePe Oral Hygiene Products, a leading provider of oral health solutions, and the Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology are deepening and extending their collaboration to further inspire global awareness of good oral health.

The Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology is one of the most distinguished professional associations within the dental community. It highlights patient compliance as essential and positions interdental cleaning as a cornerstone of both preventing periodontal disease, as well as maintaining lifelong oral health. In the same spirit, TePe’s products and solutions are built on the principles of preventive dentistry, with interdental cleaning at their core.

Driven by a shared vision to improve oral health outcomes, the partners will continue to collaborate to promote healthy practices and raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of periodontal and peri-implant diseases.

“Our continued collaboration with The Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology reflects a shared passion for preventive dentistry and education. Together, we aim to inspire good oral health and strengthen the role of preventive care in periodontology and implant dentistry,” said Fredrik Ceder, Product Innovation and Scientific Affairs Manager at TePe.

"Together we are stronger and can increase the awareness of the connection between oral and systemic health. I think we can educate and spread the knowledge on a wider global perspective," said Dr Shariel Sayardoust, President of the Board, Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology.

Through continued knowledge sharing and collaboration within their joint global network, TePe Oral Hygiene Products and the Swedish Society of Periodontology and Implantology will combine their expertise to reach beyond the clinical setting. The strengthened partnership aims to elevate the importance of preventive oral care as a key success factor within periodontology and implant dentistry, supporting both dental professionals and patients worldwide.

TePe Oral Hygiene Products, founded by the Eklund family in 1965, is an international company headquartered in Malmö, Sweden. TePe has 450 employees and a turnover of MSEK 1551 (2025). Based on innovation and the vision to bring healthy smiles for life, TePe offers a complete range of high-quality self-care solutions, developed in partnership with the dental profession. Marketed by subsidiaries and business creators in 80 countries, TePe’s oral health products are available through dental practices, pharmacies, e-tail, and retail. For more information, visit www.tepe.com.

DentScribe Is Not Just an AI Scribe; It Supports the Entire Dental Day

2026-05-13T08:44:00.005-04:00

From the morning huddle to chairside review, notes, perio charting, treatment coordination, after-care, and follow-up, DentScribe helps busy dentists and DSOs see the full power of dental AI.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A dentist's day is not one task. It is a chain reaction.

It starts before the first patient sits down. The team has only a few minutes for the morning huddle. Who is coming in today? What did we miss last time? Which patients have unscheduled treatment? Which issues need attention before they become bigger problems?

DentScribe turns the chaos of dentistry into clarity, compliance, and production.

Then the dentist walks into the operatory and needs instant context. What is in the chart? What did the patient defer? What did the provider recommend at the last visit? What should not be missed today?

Then comes the appointment itself: diagnosis, treatment, patient education, clinical judgment, documentation, perio charting, billing support, and follow-up planning.

And when the patient leaves the chair, the work is still not done. The treatment coordinator must explain the plan, discuss cost, review financing or insurance, handle hesitation, schedule the next visit, and make sure the patient understands what happens next.

This is why DentScribe is built to be more than an AI scribe.

DentScribe today reinforced the full range of its AI platform for dental practices and DSOs - a connected suite of capabilities designed to support the busy dentist and team across the dental day, from preparation to patient care to follow-up.

"Dentists do not experience their day as isolated tasks," said Dr. Vinni K. Singh, Founder & CEO of DentScribe. "The morning huddle affects the chairside conversation. The chairside conversation affects the SOAP note. The SOAP note is the ground truth for production opportunities, treatment coordination, after-care, and doctor communications. DentScribe brings those pieces together so AI can support the real workflow of the dental office."

The DentScribe 'aha' is simple: the note is only the beginning.

A SOAP note contains the dentist's true clinical assessment. DentScribe turns that ground truth into action across the practice.

Before the day begins, DentScribe GPS helps the team prepare with a smarter morning huddle.
Before and during the appointment, DentScribe CoPilot helps surface chairside reminders and unresolved opportunities.
During and after care, DentScribe helps generate comprehensive SOAP notes and supports AI voice perio charting.
After the appointment, DentScribe Treatment Coordinator Notes help document the financial and scheduling conversation.
Before the patient forgets, DentScribe After-Care Summaries help explain what happened, what matters, and what comes next.
When another provider needs context, DentScribe supports referral letters, specialist reports, and doctor communications.
Across the office, DentScribe supports PMS-connected workflows, CDT-aware documentation, and practice-specific templates.

For busy dentists, that means less time buried in notes and fewer missed details.

For front-desk and treatment teams, it means clearer handoffs, better follow-up, and a more consistent way to document patient concerns.

For patients, it means a smoother experience, clearer next steps, and a better understanding of the care being recommended.

For DSOs and practice owners, it means DentScribe is not merely a documentation tool. It is an AI operating layer that can help reveal missed opportunities, reduce leakage, improve communication, and give leaders better visibility into the daily workflow of the practice.

"DentScribe's ground-truth approach is powerful because it starts with what the dentist actually said, observed, and recommended," said Dr. Ratinder Paul Singh Ahuja, Board Chair of DentScribe. "When that information becomes structured and actionable across the practice, AI becomes far more than a scribe - it becomes a system for better care delivery and production."

DentScribe's platform was designed for the reality of modern dentistry: fragmented systems, tight schedules, incomplete handoffs, late-night charting, missed follow-ups, and lost production. By bringing together documentation, CoPilot intelligence, GPS morning huddle insights, perio charting, treatment coordination, after-care, doctor communications, and PMS integration, DentScribe gives dental teams a clearer way to manage the full patient workflow.

The result is the "aha" moment many dentists and DSOs are looking for: An AI agent that optimizes their entire patient care workflow.

Ready to see the full DentScribe platform? Book a live demo: https://www.dentscribe.ai/book-a-demo

About DentScribe
DentScribe is the agentic AI platform for dental documentation and production. DentScribe automatically generates comprehensive SOAP notes from dentist-patient conversations and publishes them directly into leading practice management systems. With DentScribe CoPilot, those notes become chairside checklists that close care gaps and increase case acceptance. With DentScribe GPS, leaders gain a practice-wide daily brief that turns morning huddles into a reliable engine for production and patient outcomes. Founded by practicing dentist Dr. Vinni K. Singh in Sunnyvale, California, DentScribe helps dentists reclaim time, deliver better care, and grow their practices - without changing how they work. Learn more or book a demo at dentscribe.ai.

Henry Schein One Launches MCP Layer

2026-05-12T08:35:00.005-04:00

A new MCP layer gives ambitious practices, DSOs, and developers three ways to work smarter: ask questions of their data with natural language, run live AI agents that handle operational work automatically, and build custom workflows tailored to how they practice.

Henry Schein One, the global leader in dental technology, recently announced support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open layer inside Dentrix Ascend that enables ambitious practices, DSOs, and developers to query their data, run AI agents, and build custom workflows, all within the platform they already use.

The Platform Dental AI Runs On

Henry Schein One supports more than 100,000 global locations, including approximately 90% of the top DSOs. The company’s technology processes over 120 million claims annually, supports more than 191 million eligibility checks, and has facilitated more than 22 million completed digital forms. That depth of structured clinical and operational data is what makes these agents effective from day one.

“We built the agents that do the work,” said Brian Weatherly, Chief Executive Officer, Henry Schein One. “The build layer is there for practices and partners who want to go further, but most customers will see results immediately—without writing a single line of code.”

“The combination of embedded capabilities and deeper insights gives us greater flexibility in how we take action,” said Justin Carroll, Chief Financial Officer at MB2.

Ask. Orchestrate. Build.

Dentrix Ascend’s MCP layer works across three tiers:

Ask

Any team member can query clinical, operational, and financial data in plain language—no training required. For example, “Who has unverified insurance this week?” gets an answer in seconds. An Ask preview is now available for Dentrix Ascend practices.

Orchestrate

Pre-built agents are running live today, handling the operational work that doesn’t require a person, including Eligibility Pro for real-time insurance verification, Image Verify for documentation quality, claims reconciliation, recall gap management, and automated patient follow-up.

The MCP-based orchestration layer allows ambitious practices to automate and coordinate workflows across the entire practice and DSOs to connect and coordinate agents across their organizations. The orchestration layer will be available to select customers after THRIVELIVE®, with broader availability coming this year.

Build

The full MCP build layer is the next phase of the platform. Ambitious practices and DSOs will be able to configure custom workflows and dashboards and build agents tuned to their care model.

Availability

Henry Schein One will showcase these capabilities at THRIVELIVE, Henry Schein’s premier annual dental education event, where attendees will have hands-on access in a live sandbox environment. A dedicated session will also be featured at the Dykema DSO Executive Event. To learn more and see a demo, join us at booth #300 at THRIVELIVE.

About Henry Schein One

Henry Schein One is the global leader in dental technology, delivering integrated solutions that connect practice operations, clinical workflows, and patient experience. Dentrix Ascend is its cloud-based platform built to help practices grow with less complexity. With more than 100,000 global locations on the platform, Henry Schein One provides the infrastructure, the data foundation, the pre-built AI agents, and the open build layer that dental AI runs on. Henry Schein One, LLC, is a joint venture between Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) and Internet Brands.

Henry Schein’s THRIVELIVE 2026 Delivers on Innovation, Education, and Inspiration

2026-05-11T10:35:00.007-04:00

New CEO Frederick Lowery, aesthetic leader Dr. Apa, and Howie Mandel among the many presenters at company’s annual dental team event in Las Vegas.

MELVILLE, NY– Henry Schein, Inc’s THRIVELIVE 2026 just wrapped up in Las Vegas and the event featured a presentation by new Chief Executive Officer Frederick M. Lowery.

Photos courtesy of Henry Schein, Inc.

Henry Schein’s premier annual dental team event was held at Resorts World Las Vegas from April 29 through May 2. The event brought together dental professionals for an immersive experience focused on clinical excellence, practice growth, and the latest in cutting-edge dental technology.

Henry Schein’s Chief Executive Officer Frederick M. Lowery.

The 2026 program featured a powerhouse lineup of speakers, headlined by world-renowned aesthetic dentist Michael Apa, DDS, who shared insights on the future of dental care during the General Session. This year’s event also marked a significant milestone as Lowery, appearing in his new role as Henry Schein’s CEO, addressed the dental community, sharing the vision for the future of the company and its commitment to advancing the dental profession. Beyond the classroom, attendees experienced world-class entertainment, including a performance by comedian Howie Mandel. Hands-on education such as Dentrix and Dentrix Ascend computer labs were another highlight of the show for attendees.

With over 100 expert-led sessions covering core topics from AI and digital workflows to team development and mental wellness, THRIVELIVE continues to serve as a platform for empowering the entire dental office to thrive in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Attendees participated in enriching courses, workshops, and lectures while earning multiple CE credits and gaining valuable knowledge.

Check out Henry Schein Dental’s Instagram for more highlights, photos, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content from the event.

quip Announces Supplier Package Agreement with Henry Schein for Availability of the Ultra Next-Generation Smart Sonic Toothbrush to Dental Professionals Nationwide

2026-05-08T15:19:00.003-04:00

Supplier package agreement makes quip’s newest rechargeable electric toothbrush available through the Henry Schein platform

quip, the modern oral care brand known for making good oral health habits more simple, accessible, and enjoyable, recently announced a new supplier package agreement with Henry Schein, one of the world’s leading providers of healthcare products and solutions to office-based dental and medical practitioners.

Dental professionals can now purchase the quip Ultra™ Smart Sonic Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush (the “quip Ultra”) through Henry Schein, offering a patient-friendly solution that supports compliance, in-office retail, new patient welcome kits, and patient recommendation programs — all with access to quip’s wholesale pricing structure that delivers over 30% savings compared to retail. The agreement marks an important step in making quip available through Henry Schein and expanding access to the brand’s newest technology for dental professionals.

Clinically, the quip Ultra delivers 15x more plaque removal between teeth¹ and 2x more whitening within one week², both versus a regular manual toothbrush—performance that gives dental professionals a confident, evidence-based recommendation to make chairside. Dental professionals purchasing through Henry Schein also receive an additional brush head and a coupon card with each unit, providing a bundled value for practices that incorporate quip into patient care programs.

“We’re pleased to make quip Ultra available through a trusted purchasing platform used by dental professionals nationwide,” said Ronnie Delphin, Manager, Sales Operations at quip. “Henry Schein’s reach and reputation within the dental community gives us the ideal platform to put our newest technology directly into the hands of the clinicians who recommend these products every day. This is just the beginning of what we expect to be a long and productive relationship.”

“Our customers are increasingly looking for solutions that bridge clinical efficacy with patient engagement,” said Meredith Glansberg, CEO of quip. “quip Ultra brings a modern, connected approach to home care that aligns with how today’s practices are educating and motivating patients.”

The quip Ultra features Bluetooth connectivity with the quip app, 10+ brushing modes, a wireless charger, and a travel case. Its EasyClick Brush Pod features soft replaceable bristles and produces 70% less waste than traditional brush heads.³ A single charge lasts up to 30 days, and a guiding pressure sensor with LED light pulses alerts users to brush more gently and prevent harsh brushing — making it one of the most thoughtfully engineered offerings in quip’s lineup. The quip Ultra also earned a 2025 TIME Best Inventions Award in the Design Category, recognized for its sleek design, intuitive technology, and accessible price point that bring professional-level oral care into everyday routines.⁴

The Henry Schein supplier package agreement expands access to quip’s broader offering, centered around quippros.com, the brand’s B2B platform where dental offices can sign up, order wholesale products, and access professional resources including continuing education, an ambassador program, and monthly communications reaching more than 86,000 dental professionals and students.

Dental professionals interested in learning more about the quip Ultra and its availability through Henry Schein can visit https://www.henryschein.com/en-us/p/quip-ultra-next-generation-sonic-rechargeable-electric-toothbrush-white-ea/1490806 or stop by the quip booth #1275 at the California Dental Association Annual Meeting, May 14–16, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

REFERENCES

1 & 2: data on file, quip, 2026.

3. Versus quip Sonic Toothbrush refill, by weight.

4. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/quip-ultra-smart-sonic-toothbrush-wins-times-best-inventions-of-2025-award-302643968.html

About quip

Since its inception in 2015, quip has been on a mission to improve oral health by turning a “have to” chore into a “want to” ritual. With a commitment to simple, science-backed design, quip creates intuitive, effective products that make oral health accessible to all. In addition to its highly acclaimed electric toothbrushes, quip offers a full range of personal care products, including water flossers, toothpaste, refillable floss string, and mints. With more than 54 million products sold and millions of subscribers nationwide, quip is available at Target, Walmart, CVS, and other retailers throughout the US. Learn more at www.getquip.com.

About Henry Schein

Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) is a solutions company for healthcare 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.

VISALYS Bulk Fill Delivers Esthetic Restoration

2026-05-07T15:19:00.005-04:00

Perfectly complemented: Kettenbach Dental’s composite line continues to grow
The new restorative composite VISALYS® Bulk Fill – for durable restorations within a system

With VISALYS Bulk Fill, Kettenbach Dental introduces a packable bulk-fill composite that meaningfully expands its existing product line. Developed for posterior restorations, the material combines efficient single-layer application with inherent material stability, addressing key requirements in everyday clinical practice.

With the introduction of VISALYS Bulk Fill, Kettenbach Dental continues to consistently expand its modular bulk system. In combination with the flowable VISALYS Bulk Flow, users benefit from a coordinated system that provides a suitable solution for both cavity bases and definitive restorations. This enables flexible implementation of individual treatment concepts—for efficient workflows and reliable results in daily practice.

Stable margins through low water absorption

A key feature of VISALYS Bulk Fill is its very low water absorption of just 9.8 µg/mm³. This property makes a significant contribution to the long-term stability of restorations, as it reduces the risk of marginal changes and supports the integrity of the filling over time. Combined with high abrasion resistance, this creates a reliable foundation for durable posterior restorations.

Efficient handling

VISALYS Bulk Fill allows for quick and reliable single-layer application up to 4 mm. This reduces treatment steps and allows for more efficient workflows. The low polymerization shrinkage stress supports stress-free curing, while the excellent sculptability enables precise adaptation to the cavity. These features facilitate both direct application in practice and the implementation of advanced restorative concepts.

Esthetics and versatility

The one-shade concept ensures harmonious integration into the natural tooth structure, enabling esthetically convincing results without complex shade selection. At the same time, the material offers a broad range of indications—from Class I to Class V restorations, pediatric fillings, and core build-ups.

With VISALYS Bulk Fill, Kettenbach Dental expands its portfolio with a high-performance bulk-fill composite that stands out for its material stability, handling efficiency, and esthetic capabilities. The one-shade system allows users to experience just how esthetic a bulk composite can be.

For more information about the product, please visit www.kettenbach-dental.us.

About Kettenbach LP

Kettenbach LP is located in Huntington Beach, CA, and is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Kettenbach GmbH & Co. KG located in Eschenburg, Germany. Founded by August Kettenbach in 1944, Kettenbach GmbH was created for the development and marketing of medical and dental products. Today, the company is one of the leading international producers of dental impression materials and resin restorative materials, and now preventive materials.

AAE Study Highlights Impact of Research Collaboration

2026-05-06T13:01:00.001-04:00

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) is recognizing the publication of a new peer-reviewed study examining the impact of a longstanding collaboration between the AAE and the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (National Dental PBRN). The article, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association(JADA), underscores how large-scale, practice-based research partnerships are driving meaningful advancements in endodontic care.

The study, led by Dr. Veerasathpurush Allareddy, Dr. Alan S. Law, Dr. Joana Cunha-Cruz, and Dr. Gregg H. Gilbert on behalf of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network Collaborative Group, evaluates more than a decade of collaborative research. Findings show that resulting publications have had a measurable and significant influence on the field, with articles cited 72% more often than typical NIH-funded research—an indicator of strong clinical relevance and impact.

Through this collaboration, endodontic studies conducted in real-world clinical settings have led to insights that directly inform patient care—ranging from improved pain management strategies to enhanced diagnostic protocols and treatment planning tools.

“This publication reinforces the power of collaboration in advancing our specialty,” said AAE President Dr. W. Craig Noblett. “By working alongside the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network, our members are helping generate high-quality, practice-based evidence that improves patient outcomes and strengthens the foundation of endodontic care.”

Over multiple funding cycles, this collaboration has supported numerous studies and produced a growing body of literature that bridges the gap between research and everyday clinical practice. At the heart of this success are the AAE members who stepped forward—often balancing busy practices—to participate in studies, contribute data, and help translate research into real-world impact.

The AAE extends its deepest gratitude to these members. Their willingness to engage, collaborate, and lead within a practice-based research model is not just appreciated—it is essential. Their contributions have directly advanced the specialty, strengthened the evidence base for endodontic care, and ultimately improved outcomes for patients across the country. This work reflects the very best of the profession: a shared commitment to continuous learning, clinical excellence, and advancing care for the benefit of all.

The AAE also recognizes and thanks the study authors for their leadership and contributions to advancing endodontic science.

For more information about AAE’s ongoing commitment to research and clinical excellence, visit www.aae.org.

TheraBreath Partners With Demi Lovato for Freshness

2026-05-05T13:02:00.001-04:00

TheraBreath and Demi bring freshness to the forefront of get-ready routines; plus, a chance to win tickets and a trip to a concert stop on Demi’s It’s Not That Deep Tour

TheraBreath, the revolutionary dentist-formulated oral care brand, has partnered with longtime fan and global superstar Demi Lovato to empower fans to show up as their freshest selves so they, too, can own every moment. The brand’s new mantra—Ready. Fresh. Go.—is rooted in the insight that feeling unstoppable starts with long-lasting fresh breath. TheraBreath delivers freshness through its best-selling oral rinses and expanding line of toothpastes, proving that even simple “get-ready” rituals like oral care can help people show up as their best selves.

As a longtime fan of the brand, with TheraBreath products being part of her get-ready routine on her current It’s Not That Deep Tour and beyond, Demi Lovato brings the “Ready. Fresh. Go.” mindset to life, spotlighting the role freshness plays in her daily routine—from stepping on stage to everyday moments.

“Feeling fresh helps me show up as my best self, whether I’m on stage performing in arenas or just spending time with the people I love,” said Lovato. “That’s what TheraBreath represents to me—it’s that small but impactful step in my routine that helps me walk into any moment feeling my absolute best to ‘Ready. Fresh. Go.'”

As Demi kicks off her It’s Not That Deep Tour with TheraBreath as an essential part of her prep, the brand is giving fans the chance to win an exclusive concert experience by entering the “Ready. Fresh. Go… See Demi Lovato with TheraBreath” Sweepstakes. From now through May 3, fans can enter for a chance to win:

Two tickets to Demi Lovato’s It’s Not That Deep Tour stop in Austin, Texas (May 24)
Round-trip, three-night travel (including flight, hotel, and stipend) to Austin
TheraBreath oral care products and exclusive merch

How to enter:

Follow @TheraBreath on Instagram
Tag a friend on the @TheraBreath official sweepstakes post to secure one (1) entry
Share the designated post to Instagram Stories along with #TheraBreathSweepstakes for one (1) additional bonus entry

An authentic user of TheraBreath products, Demi has partnered with the brand to bring long-lasting freshness to fans, both on and off the stage, through a multifaceted campaign that includes social content, a digital and video campaign, cookbook launch activations, concert sweepstakes giveaways, and concert sampling.

TheraBreath oral rinses and toothpastes are designed to fight bad breath, support oral hygiene, and deliver fresh breath without alcohol, giving consumers that just-brushed fresh feeling that lasts so they’re always ready before the moment hits. From its TikTok-viral oral rinses to its newly launched line of toothpastes, TheraBreath oral care products are designed to be mixed and matched to deliver superior flavor and a premium, sensorial experience, making fans feel unstoppable to Ready. Fresh. Go.

For more information about TheraBreath and its products, visit www.TheraBreath.com, and follow the brand (@TheraBreath) on TikTok and Instagram for ongoing product news.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN IN THE THERABREATH “Ready. Fresh. Go… See Demi Lovato with TheraBreath” SWEEPSTAKES. Open to legal residents of the contiguous 48 U.S. and D.C. who are 18 or older and the age of majority in their state of legal residence. Void in AK, HI, and where prohibited. Sweepstakes starts 4/20/26 at 9:00 AM ET and ends 5/3/26 at 11:59 PM ET. For Official Rules, which govern, click here. Sponsor: Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

About TheraBreath

In 2021, the TheraBreath brand was acquired by Church & Dwight Co., Inc., becoming the latest addition to its family of oral care products, which include Waterpik® water flossers, ARM & HAMMER™ toothpaste, and Spinbrush™ toothbrushes. TheraBreath founder Dr. Harold Katz created the oral care rinses at the California Breath Clinics over 30 years ago. TheraBreath products are revolutionary because they attack the germs that cause bad breath. TheraBreath has grown to have an extensive line of oral care products that address issues such as gum health, teeth whitening, cavity prevention, and dry mouth symptoms.

About Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato is a GRAMMY-nominated and award-winning musician, actor, and two-time New York Times best-selling author. She was first known for her onscreen talents and soon after became a global musical phenomenon for her remarkable vocal ability. With over 50 billion streams earned worldwide, Demi has released nine original studio albums, all of which debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, and four of which boast over one billion streams on Spotify. Most recently, she released her critically acclaimed album It’s Not That Deep and is currently supporting the album on her arena-headlining It’s Not That Deep Tour. With an audience of over 290 million on social media, Demi has established herself as a global sensation.

ADHA to Host Inaugural Integrated Care Summit

2026-05-04T08:38:00.004-04:00

Two-day event in Broomfield, Colorado, brings dental, medical and behavioral health professionals together for hands-on collaboration

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) recently announced the Integrated Care Summit 2026: Bridging the Gaps to Whole-Person Care, a two-day interprofessional symposium and workshop in Broomfield, Colorado. The event brings dental hygienists, dentists, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, behavioral health professionals and public health leaders together to address the gaps between oral, medical and behavioral health care.

The summit takes place May 15–17 at the Omni Interlocken Resort and offers 10.0 live/interactive CE and CME credits. CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and Henry Schein are anchoring the event as platinum sponsors, with additional support from industry and nonprofit partners.

Nearly 42% of U.S. adults 30 and older have periodontal disease, according to CDC data. In December 2025, the American Heart Association published an updated scientific statement in Circulation detailing growing evidence that links periodontal disease to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation and heart failure—and recommending that high-risk cardiovascular patients receive regular dental screenings. Yet most medical training programs dedicate fewer than five hours to oral health education.

The American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts Initiative and the Academy of General Dentistry joining as collaborating organizations, bringing medical and dental leadership to the summit, signals that the demand for integrated care spans well beyond oral care.

“Interprofessional collaboration only matters if it happens in practice. Having the American Heart Association and the Academy of General Dentistry participating on this summit with ADHA shows that the commitment to coordinated care is there across disciplines. Now we put it to work,” said Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, ADHA president.

Attendees will work through interprofessional care mapping exercises, clinical simulation labs and breakout sessions on biomarkers, tele-dentistry, behavioral health integration and health equity. On the exhibit floor, an Activation Station Lounge lets attendees analyze their saliva and receive an Oral Fitness Score in minutes using Dento’s ORALyzer technology, run blood pressure screening simulations with the American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts Initiative and practice A1C point-of-care testing at the Henry Schein station.

“We have long advocated for a more holistic, systemic approach to healthcare—one that prioritizes prevention and wellness across medical, dental, and mental health—because it delivers a win-win-win: healthier patients, stronger families, and lower costs for society,” said Pam Richter, Director, Corporate Affairs at Henry Schein. “With growing evidence linking oral health to systemic conditions, dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to advance integrated care by leading prevention, identifying early risk, and bridging oral and overall health. Events like the ADHA’s Integrated Care Summit serve as an important platform for advancing collaboration, creating awareness, and accelerating the adoption of an improved form of integrated care.”

Between sessions, attendees can join morning fitness classes, guided mindfulness and wellness-focused networking breaks, reinforcing the summit’s focus on whole-person health across the full event experience.

“Addressing complex challenges like integrated care requires intense collaboration from across the health care ecosystem,” said Katie D’Amico, Vice President of Growth & Innovation at CareQuest. “We are proud to support the ADHA as a convenor for the important conversations that turn insights into action and ultimately deliver better patient outcomes.”

The event is dual accredited for dental professionals through the American Academy of Dental Hygiene and for medical professionals through the ACCME, ACPE and ANCC, with joint accreditation provided by ADCES.

Registration is open at adha.org/ICS26.

About the American Dental Hygienists’ Association

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is the largest organization representing the professional interests of the more than 220,000 dental hygienists in the United States. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health. The Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH), published bimonthly, is ADHA’s peer-reviewed scientific journal and flagship publication. To learn more about the ADHA, dental hygiene or the link between oral health and general health, visit adha.org.

ADA and ADEX Advance Dental Licensure Examinations Through New Agreement

2026-05-01T12:21:00.005-04:00

ADEX to incorporate the Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination (DLOSCE) into the ADEX Dental Examination no later than Aug. 1, 2026

The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) have finalized an agreement to license the ADA’s Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination (DLOSCE) for incorporation into the ADEX Dental Examination, marking a significant step forward in modernizing dental licensure and advancing patient safety.

The agreement benefits public health, dental licensure candidates, the dental profession, and licensing boards by helping ensure dentists enter the profession with proven competence and uphold the highest standards for patient safety.

The integration of the ADA’s DLOSCE simplifies licensure pathways and supports licensure portability, benefiting candidates seeking to practice in 48 states and other jurisdictions—including Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—that currently accept or require the ADEX Dental Examination.

“This agreement represents an important milestone for the dental profession,” said Dr. Richard Rosato, DMD, president of the ADA. “By aligning pathways to licensure and advancing candidate assessment, we are strengthening licensure portability, supporting a more mobile and responsive workforce, and ensuring that patient safety remains paramount. The ADA has long championed solutions that modernize licensure while protecting the public, and this collaboration reflects our commitment to shaping a strong, sustainable future for dentistry in service to public health.”

The ADEX Dental Examination, with its DLOSCE component, represents a modernized, evidence-based approach to evaluating clinical competence and readiness for practice. The ADEX Dental Examination will continue to assess candidates’ clinical hand skills alongside their treatment planning and decision-making abilities. Through inclusion of the DLOSCE, the ADEX Dental Examination will benefit from the DLOSCE’s extensive use of images and 3D models that allow candidates to demonstrate their clinical judgment in scenarios that closely mirror real-world practice.

“ADEX has long served state dental boards to support licensure processes that reflect both public protection and clinical competence,” said Dr. Mark Armstrong, Chair of ADEX. “This agreement continues that work by strengthening alignment across assessment components while preserving the clinical hand-skills evaluation that remains central to licensure in most U.S. jurisdictions.”

The agreement follows extensive collaboration among the ADA, ADEX, the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE), and the ADA Council on Dental Education and Licensure (CDEL) that began in 2025. In March 2026, the ADA Board of Trustees and ADEX Board of Directors voted to approve the general terms that led to this joint agreement.

Central to discussions was a shared commitment to ensuring that dental licensure assessments continue to evolve in step with advancements in clinical education, technology, and patient care. Both organizations emphasized the importance of strengthening public protection while also enhancing the portability of dental licensure for candidates navigating an increasingly mobile profession.

ADEX will sunset its DSE OSCE no later than Aug. 1, 2026. Upon sunset of the DSE OSCE, all ADEX Dental Examination administrations will include the DLOSCE.

The DLOSCE will no longer be offered or administered as a standalone examination to new DLOSCE candidates, except in conjunction with the ADEX Dental Examination, after Aug. 1, 2026. All standalone administrations of the DLOSCE will cease after Oct. 9, 2026.

About the American Dental Association

The not-for-profit ADA is the nation’s largest dental association, representing more 152,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public’s health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA’s state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive. The ADA Seal of Acceptance has long been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), published monthly, is the ADA’s flagship publication and the best-read scientific journal in dentistry.

For more information about the ADA, visit ADA.org.

For more information on oral health, including prevention, care and treatment of dental disease, visit the ADA’s consumer website MouthHealthy.org.

About the American Board of Dental Examiners

The American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting dental boards in their mission to protect the public through the licensure of qualified oral health professionals. Established in 1969, ADEX administers independent competency examinations developed and approved by representatives of state dental boards. ADEX examinations are accepted or required by law in 51 U.S. jurisdictions and serve as the initial licensure pathway for 98% of dental and 85% of dental hygiene candidates nationwide. Through ongoing collaboration with dental boards and educators, ADEX continues to advance innovative, evidence-based assessment methods that uphold the highest standards of fairness, clinical competence, and public protection.

Learn more at adextesting.org.

Spear Education Expands Training and Programs for 2026

2026-04-30T14:37:00.006-04:00

Spear Education, the leading provider of advanced dental training and dental workforce enablement solutions, is building on strong momentum in 2026, with growth driven by Spear Summit results, expanded partnerships, and new programming.

This year’s summit drew a global community of clinicians and provided dedicated time to connect and network. Internationally recognized dentists from Brazil, Germany, and Italy led seminars and discussions. Attendees were also inspired by Dr. Frank Spear’s session titled “What Are You Going to Do with the Rest of Your Life?” along with the broader curriculum focused on clinical excellence, decision-making, and practice growth. Spear Summit once again attracted a highly engaged audience, with 94% of attendees reporting a positive overall experience.

“We are seeing a strong response from dentists who are looking for clarity in how they grow and how they can effectively manage and retain their teams,” said Matthew Coggin, chief executive officer of Spear Education. “Summit is where those conversations happen in a meaningful way. We want to partner with them to reach their ideal practice and support them with clinical learning, but also support in the form of leadership training, team learning pathways, and coaching so they can build the practice and business they want.”

In addition to the positive response to this year’s Spear Summit, Spear Education has been focused on expanding its partner relationships and product growth. In Q1 of this year, the company deepened its work with Overjet and Align Technology, further supporting clinicians with integrated tools and education that connect clinical care with emerging technologies.

Alongside these partnerships, Spear has introduced several new and expanded learning experiences, in addition to releasing a reimagined learning platform in early Q1. Spear Online has been updated to offer a new online learning experience that provides personalized learning pathways, improved navigation, and expanded course content for dentists at every stage of their careers.

Additionally, Spear released a Hygiene Mastery Program and live webinar series. The program is an always-on resource for dentists who want to develop their hygienists as co-therapists driving diagnoses and growth from the hygiene chair. Dentists can ensure consistent patient care by using this program to onboard and train their hygiene teams on an ongoing basis, ensuring that every new team member shares the same framework for high-quality patient care.

“Our focus is on giving dentists and their teams practical ways to improve both clinical outcomes and the business side of their practice,” said Dr. Dan Butterman, chief dental officer at Spear Education. “That includes everything from restorative planning to financial decision-making. The goal is to meet clinicians where they are and give them a clear path forward.”

Spear Education is continuing its in-person programming throughout 2026, including regional seminars led by Dr. Gregg Kinzer in Dallas; Nashville, Tenn.; and Atlanta. He will present Private Practice Realities: How to Enhance Your Clinical Outcomes, a deep dive into how high-performing dentists improve patient care and practice growth. The company will also host Ortho-Restorative Integration: From Planning to Practice across multiple dates in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Raleigh, N.C., along with the Women in Dentistry Retreatscheduled for October 16–17 in Scottsdale.

The next Spear Summit will take place April 7–10, 2027, at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.

Dentists can explore Spear Education’s platform and create a free Discover account at https://account.speareducation.com/register.

About Spear Education

Spear Education is the leading provider of advanced dental training and dental workforce enablement solutions, equipping dentists and their teams with the clinical and leadership capabilities needed to enhance patient care and grow their practices. Through a blend of tech-enabled virtual learning, hands-on workshops, live seminars, and study clubs, the company is committed to advancing modern dentistry at every level. For more information, visit www.speareducation.com.

GoTu's 2026 State of Work Report Shows Dental Workforce at a Critical Inflection Point

2026-04-30T08:38:00.000-04:00

Developed with ADHA, the nation's largest dental workforce study uncovers
sustained burnout, limited compensation growth, and increasing mobility

MIAMI, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GoTu Technology, the nation's leading dental talent marketplace, today released its annual State of Work Report, the largest ongoing study of the U.S. dental workforce. The 2026 study reflects responses from nearly 8,000 dental hygienists, dental assistants, and associate dentists across all 50 states, offering the industry's most comprehensive view into how dental professionals are working and why many are reconsidering where and how they stay in the field.

Developed in partnership with the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), the findings reflect the full breadth of the profession, from single provider practices to multilocation groups nationwide. Now in its third year, the dataset reveals a profession deeply committed to patient care, with 82.8 percent planning to stay in dentistry for at least the next decade. However, the conditions inside practices continue to erode that commitment at the local level.

Key findings include:

A workforce under sustained pressure. Compensation has not improved for the third straight year, with 59 percent receiving no raise, 74.7 percent receiving no bonus, and 44.7 percent lacking benefits.
Burnout remains high, affecting 54.1 percent of all dental professionals and 60.6 percent of hygienists, driven largely by workload and office culture.
Retention challenges continue, with 64 percent reporting their longest tenure at any practice is five years or less and office switching rising again this year.

"These findings show a workforce that is not walking away from dentistry – it is adapting to survive in it," said Edward Thomas, co-founder and co-CEO of GoTu. "The data is clear: when compensation, culture and autonomy do not improve, people adjust their behavior. Practices that respond to these signals now will be the ones that retain talent in the years ahead."

The report also highlights a shift in how dental professionals manage their careers. Temporary work has become a deliberate strategy for flexibility and income stability rather than a fallback. Many professionals are disengaging instead of resigning outright, a subtle yet significant indicator of workplace strain.

"This report confirms what hygienists have been telling us; stalled compensation, high burnout, and limited clinical autonomy are undermining retention across the profession," said ADHA President Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH. "This data supports initiatives we're driving to strengthen the workforce and keep experienced hygienists in practice."

"Our goal is to give the industry a clear, unfiltered view of what dental professionals are experiencing," said Cary Gahm, co-founder and co-CEO of GoTu. "Nearly 8,000 voices are telling us the same story. They want workplaces that make staying sustainable. When we listen to them, the entire profession becomes stronger."

The report's six focus areas — workforce demographics, compensation, burnout and well-being, temporary work, clinical autonomy, and industry challenges — give industry leaders a clear, data-driven view of the conditions shaping today's dental workforce.

To download the full report, please visit https://sow.gotu.com/.

About GoTu

GoTu (formerly TempMee) is a pioneering, technology-driven workforce solution and skill-sharing marketplace serving the dental industry. The platform allows dental offices to contract directly with registered dental hygienists, dental assistants, and associate dentists to fill both short-term and permanent positions. Launched in 2019, GoTu has filled more than 500,000 shifts nationwide, empowering dental professionals with flexibility and control while ensuring practices can deliver exceptional patient care. Miami-based GoTu has grown from a bootstrapped startup to an institutional investor-backed powerhouse with 120+ team members. For more information, visit www.gotu.com.

About the American Dental Hygienists' Association

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) is the only organization representing the professional interests of the more than 220,000 dental hygienists in the United States. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health. To learn more about the ADHA, dental hygiene or the link between oral health and general health, visit www.adha.org.

SOURCE GoTu

FXClear Study Shows Faster Aligner Results

2026-04-29T13:57:00.006-04:00

Preliminary Findings From a Retrospective Comparison Study Highlight Effectiveness and Clinical Advantages of the FXClear Proprietary Aligner System.

OrthoFX More Predictable Clinical Outcomes – Comparison

OrthoFX, a leader in innovative clear aligner technology, recently announced preliminary results from a retrospective clinical study comparing the treatment effectiveness and predictability of its FXClear aligner system with the leading clear aligner brand, Invisalign. The study, titled “Treatment Effectiveness of FXClear Aligner: A Comparison Clinical Study,” demonstrates that FXClear achieved significantly shorter treatment duration, fewer total visits, fewer aligners used, and more precise planned-to-final geometric fidelity than Invisalign, while maintaining comparable finishing quality in mild-to-moderate malocclusion cases.

Key Efficiency Findings

The retrospective analysis represents the first head-to-head comparison of comprehensive treatment effectiveness parameters between two clear aligner systems in a clinical setting. The study was conducted across three private orthodontic practices and evaluated 111 cases (54 FXClear cases and 57 Invisalign cases) with comparable baseline malocclusion severity (American Board of Orthodontics Discrepancy Index (DI) scores of 13.20 vs. 14.70; p=.056). Both groups were treated by the same orthodontist using identical 7-day aligner change protocols. The preliminary study revealed:

Treatment Duration: FXClear cases completed treatment in an average of 17.3 months compared to 23.0 months for Invisalign—a reduction of nearly six months, or 25% (p=.005).
Fewer Aligners: FXClear cases required an average of 49 aligners versus 82 for Invisalign—a 40% reduction (p<.001).
Fewer Total Visits: FXClear cases averaged 12.6 visits compared to 15.4 for Invisalign (p=.001), driven by significantly fewer virtual monitoring visits (2.3 vs. 5.5; p<.001). In-office visits remained comparable (p=.533), indicating that efficiency gains stemmed from optimized treatment protocols rather than reduced clinical oversight.

Geometric/Morphometric Comparison

Greater Treatment Precision: 3D superimposition analysis of planned vs. actual treatment outcomes showed FXClear (n=14) achieved significantly lower deviation (RMS) in both the upper arch (p=.0005) and lower arch (p=.0001), with 39–43% of surface points falling within ±0.5 mm tolerance compared to 27–28% for Invisalign (n=14).
Comparable Finishing Quality: Modified ABO Objective Grading System scores confirmed that both systems achieved comparable clinical outcomes (n=10 for each group).

Clinical Significance

One of the most clinically significant findings involved treatment predictability. Digital superimposition revealed that Invisalign cases exhibited deviations of up to 1.0 mm in mandibular posterior occlusal surfaces, suggesting possible unwanted posterior open bite—a commonly reported complication. FXClear showed deviations of less than 0.5 mm in comparable areas, indicating more consistent planned-to-final geometric fidelity.

“These findings suggest that FXClear may offer potential efficiency advantages in clear aligner therapy,” the study authors concluded. “In mild-to-moderate complex cases, the FXClear aligner system resulted in fewer total visits, shorter treatment duration, and fewer aligners used compared to the Invisalign aligner system.”

Clinical Implications

For orthodontists, the results highlight a meaningful clinical alternative in the clear aligner market. With 40% fewer aligners per case and nearly six fewer months of treatment time, FXClear offers improved practice efficiency and streamlined scheduling without compromising quality.

For patients, the data points to a shorter treatment journey, fewer appointments, and greater predictability.

Company Commentary

“These preliminary results validate what our clinical partners have been telling us—FXClear delivers a meaningfully different experience for both the orthodontist and the patient,” said Sheila Tan, Chief Commercial Officer at OrthoFX. “Shorter treatment times, fewer aligners, and greater precision aren’t just numbers. They ladder up to happier patients and greater practice efficiency. We’re especially proud that this comparison was conducted under controlled conditions by the same clinician using identical protocols, because it reflects what’s really driving the difference: the proprietary polymer innovation behind our aligner system.”

Tan added, “This study is an important step in demonstrating that FXClear is not simply another aligner alternative; it’s the next generation of aligner innovation and a clinically differentiated system built to raise the standard of care in orthodontics.”

Study Methodology

The retrospective observational study evaluated patients aged 14 and older with mild-to-moderate malocclusion complexity (ABO DI scores between 10 and 30) treated at three private orthodontic practices by the same provider. All patients were treated with nonextraction approaches. Treatment effectiveness was assessed through digital superimposition of initial scans, final intraoral scans, and computerized treatment plan STL files using Geomagic Control X and Meshmixer software. Modified ABO OGS scores were used to grade final outcomes. Statistical analysis employed independent-samples t-tests and Mann–Whitney U tests at p<.05. The full study is ongoing and the manuscript is being prepared for submission to a leading orthodontic journal.

About OrthoFX

OrthoFX was established by pioneers in the clear aligner industry who helped advance and scale leading aligner brands. The founders saw an opportunity to improve predictability and patient compliance by reimagining next-generation polymers, software, and services. The OrthoFX portfolio includes FXClear, featuring stain-resistant material and smooth, scalloped edges; FXBright, a translucent aligner system that offers a naturally whiter appearance from day one; and the AirFlex System with newly announced PrecisionFinish aligners.

For more information about becoming an OrthoFX provider, visit www.orthofx.com.

Spear Education Highlights Growth Across Education, Partnerships, and Events Following Spear Summit 2026

2026-04-28T13:46:00.004-04:00

Increased global engagement and new programming reflect demand for practical,
outcomes-focused training

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Spear Education, the leading provider of advanced dental training and dental workforce enablement solutions, is building on strong momentum in 2026, with growth driven by Spear Summit results, expanded partnerships, and new programming.

This year's summit drew a global community of clinicians and provided dedicated time to connect and network. Internationally recognized dentists from Brazil, Germany, and Italy led seminars and discussions. Attendees were also inspired by Dr. Frank Spear's session titled "What Are You Going to Do with the Rest of Your Life?" along with the broader curriculum focused on clinical excellence, decision-making, and practice growth. Spear Summit once again attracted a highly engaged audience, with 94% of attendees reporting a positive overall experience.

"We are seeing a strong response from dentists who are looking for clarity in how they grow and how they can effectively manage and retain their teams," said Matthew Coggin, chief executive officer of Spear Education. "Summit is where those conversations happen in a meaningful way. We want to partner with them to reach their ideal practice and support them with clinical learning, but also support in the form of leadership training, team learning pathways and coaching so they can build the practice and business they want."

In addition to the positive response to this year's Spear Summit, Spear Education has been focused on expanding its partner relationships and product growth. In Q1 of this year, the company deepened its work with Overjet and Align Technology, further supporting clinicians with integrated tools and education that connect clinical care with emerging technologies.

Alongside these partnerships, Spear has introduced several new and expanded learning experiences in addition to releasing a reimagined learning platform in early Q1. Spear Online has been updated to offer a new online learning experience that offers personalized learning pathways, improved navigation, and expanded course content for dentists at every stage of their careers.

"Our focus is on giving dentists and their teams practical ways to improve both clinical outcomes and the business side of their practice," said Dr. Dan Butterman, chief dental officer at Spear Education. "That includes everything from restorative planning to financial decision-making. The goal is to meet clinicians where they are and give them a clear path forward."

The next Spear Summit will take place April 7–10, 2027, at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.

Dentists can explore Spear Education's platform and create a free Discover account at https://account.speareducation.com/register.

About Spear Education
Spear Education is the leading provider of advanced dental training and dental workforce enablement solutions, equipping dentists and their teams with the clinical and leadership capabilities needed to enhance patient care and grow their practices. Through a blend of tech-enabled virtual learning, hands-on workshops, live seminars, and study clubs, the company is committed to advancing modern dentistry at every level. For more information, visit www.speareducation.com.

SOURCE Spear Education

OraLiva, Inc. Announces Launch of Clinically Validated, AI-Powered Oral Cancer Test

2026-04-27T13:43:00.006-04:00

OraLiva, Inc. announced the commercial launch of its AI-powered oral cancer and oral lesion test, a powerful non-invasive test designed to empower dentists and clinicians to detect and monitor lesions of concern earlier, when outcomes are most favorable. OraLiva has partnered with Delta Dental Plan of Michigan, Inc., Delta Dental Plan of Ohio, Inc., Delta Dental Plan of Indiana, Inc. (collectively “DDMI”), and Delta Dental of North Carolina (“DDNC”)¹ on the launch to make the test available as a covered procedure.

The test, a “thermometer for cancer,” is intended for use by dentists, periodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and ENTs. Samples are collected quickly with a simple brush of the lesion during a routine clinical visit by hygienists or dentists. OraLiva’s test can also be used in surveillance testing of high-risk or recurrent patients and similarly be collected by nurses, trained assistants, or specialists.

Built on one of the largest NIH-sponsored prospective studies of oral potentially malignant disorders ever completed, with 999 patients and more than 13 million analyzed cells, OraLiva has developed and clinically validated one of the most advanced cytology models for the early detection and monitoring of oral cancer, uniquely capable of accurately distinguishing mild, moderate, and severe oral epithelial dysplasia (i.e., pre-cancer).²

Oral Cancer: Hiding in Plain Sight

Despite being visible in routine dental examinations, oral cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to detect early because many benign oral lesions share features with oral epithelial dysplasia. This diagnostic challenge is compounded by the lack of effective, readily available tools to guide front-line clinicians when evaluating suspicious lesions.

In 2025, an estimated 59,660 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer, and approximately 12,770 will die from the disease.³ Unfortunately, only one in four cases of oral cancer are detected at an early stage, where five-year survival approaches 88%. Most cases are diagnosed at later stages of disease, when survival drops to approximately 37%, underscoring the urgent need for better early-identification tools.⁴

OraLiva’s test is designed not only to support the proactive detection of cancerous lesions but also to intercept disease earlier at the stage of precancerous dysplasia, when treatment is less invasive, survival prospects are higher, and healthcare costs are significantly lower.

A New Cytomics Platform for Early Detection

OraLiva’s test is powered by a novel cytomics platform that combines advanced microfluidics, high-resolution cellular imaging, and artificial intelligence to analyze cellular changes associated with early cancer development.

After collection by the provider, samples are shipped to OraLiva’s lab, where a proprietary microfluidic cartridge prepares the sample for digital cytology analysis. Once processed, the system generates high-resolution cellular images using OraLiva’s proprietary cellular imaging device, designed to capture detailed morphological and biomarker information from individual epithelial cells.

These images are analyzed by AI models trained on millions of oral epithelial cells and mapped to gold-standard adjudicated stages defined by leading oral pathologists. The models evaluate subtle cellular patterns associated with dysplasia and malignancy, enabling the system to detect abnormalities beyond the detection of the human eye.

The resulting test report, reviewed and approved by a pathologist, includes both a quantitative risk score, which measures the risk of the lesion, and an actionable recommendation to the provider on whether to rule out, monitor, or refer patients.

The technology was developed through more than a decade of translational research led by Dr. John T. McDevitt at the NYU College of Dentistry, in collaboration with experts in oncology, pathology, and biomedical engineering.

Access to Early Detection

OraLiva has partnered with Delta Dental of Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and North Carolina to make the test available to providers in those states as a covered procedure under CDT code D7288 (brush biopsy, transepithelial sample collection). OraLiva expects to expand availability to additional states throughout the year as the program grows.

Dental providers interested in evaluating the technology in their practice can sign up for clinical evaluation kits here.

About OraLiva, Inc.

OraLiva develops AI-powered cytology diagnostics for early detection across epithelial tissues. Its oral lesion test combines microfluidic cytology collection, digital imaging, and artificial intelligence to generate clinically validated, risk-stratified reports and actionable recommendations that support clinical decision-making.

REFERENCES

Delta Dental is a trademark of the Delta Dental Plans Association. The Delta Dental Plans Association does not make any representations, warranties or endorsements with respect to OraLiva or its products
McRae, McDevitt, Journal of Dental Research, 2021, 100, 479-486.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html

vVARDIS Announces Investment from Apollo —Achieves Unicorn Status

2026-04-27T13:12:00.002-04:00

Investment will support global commercial expansion of the Curodont™ technology platform, the first and only non-invasive peptide-containing formulations designed to treat tooth decay drill-free throughout the depth of the lesion.

ZUG, Switzerland – April 27, 2026 – vVARDIS Holding AG (“vVARDIS”), a high-growth dental medtech company pioneering non-invasive cavity treatment, today announced a strategic minority investment from Apollo-managed funds (“Apollo Funds”).

The investment will support vVARDIS’ next phase of global growth and commercial expansion, including the continued rollout of its Curodont™ suite of products. The investment establishes vVARDIS as one of Europe’s few privately owned, billion-dollar-plus, healthcare companies. vVARDIS’ founders and co-CEOs, Drs. Haley and Goly Abivardi, will retain a substantial majority shareholding in the company.

vVARDIS is redefining the treatment of cavities through its Curodont™ technology, the first and only commercially available non-invasive peptide-containing formulations clinically proven to treat tooth decay.

Curodont™ supports enamel repair by facilitating the formation of crystalline mineral structure throughout the affected area, giving dental professionals an easy-to-use, restorative option to treat early-stage cavities as an alternative to traditional drilling.

Since the launch of Curodont™ Repair Fluoride Plus in the U.S. over two years ago, it has been used to treat approximately 3 million teeth, is now present in nearly 20 percent of general dental practices nationwide1 and is one of the fastest-growing dental products in the U.S.2.

“vVARDIS has built a differentiated business, with Drs. Haley and Goly Abivardi pioneering a new category in dental care backed by peer-reviewed clinical studies,” said Jeremy Honeth, Partner and Andrea Vanni, Managing Director at Apollo. “Apollo Funds’ investment supports the company’s continued expansion in key markets across the US and Europe, bringing this restorative therapy to more practices and patients worldwide.”

“Curodont™ fills a longstanding gap in dentistry: when prevention fails, dentists now have a quick, easy-to-use non-invasive treatment free of drilling and needles. The rapid adoption of Curodont™ reflects the urgency of that unmet need,” said Haley Abivardi, DMD, co-CEO and co-founder of vVARDIS. “Apollo Funds’ investment strengthens our commercial foundation in the US and Europe and enables us to scale this environmentally sustainable technology across markets.”

Goly Abivardi, DMD, co-CEO and co-founder of vVARDIS, said, “Our mission is to bring a medical, science driven approach to dentistry. Using peptide-containing formulations, our non-invasive technology is an innovative treatment designed to treat tooth decay without drilling and without polymer materials. Apollo Funds’ investment reinforces our leadership in generative dentistry and advances the future of oral science.”

Tooth decay is the world’s most prevalent non-communicable disease, affecting nearly 90 percent of US adults. Oral health is closely linked to overall health, and untreated cavities can contribute to serious chronic conditions, including a 26 percent increased risk of all-cause mortality.3. Recently published WHO guidelines reinforce vVARDIS’ mission of early intervention and non-invasive care, as the company targets an addressable market of over $30 billion in the US.

The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About vVARDIS AG

vVARDIS is a disruptive Swiss healthcare company in the dental med-tech sector headquartered in Zug, Switzerland that offers groundbreaking, non-invasive solutions for dental professionals with the Curodont™ brand of products. Founded by Drs. Haley and Goly Abivardi, DMDs, sisters, internationally renowned dentists, innovators and self-made serial entrepreneurs, vVARDIS is the result of more than 25 years of research, paired with the commitment of its founders to make an impact on people's lives, especially the underserved.

vVARDIS' mission is to expand access to novel approaches that create new standards of care in dentistry with the purpose of improving oral health – the foundation for overall health. Backed by 25 years of research and more than 10 years of use in clinical practices globally, vVARDIS’ products and science are supported by more than 250 scientific publications, including meta-analysis, peer-reviewed and long-term peer-reviewed real-world evidence clinical studies, with a documented success rate above 90%. Curodont™ products are already presented in the lectures of renowned universities as a standard of care for the treatment of early decay. vVARDIS was awarded the 2026 Innovative Company of the Year and is a member of the World Economic Forum Innovator Communities. For more information, visit vVARDIS at www.vVARDIS.com and www.linkedin.com/company/vvardis .

About Apollo

Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of December 31, 2025, Apollo had approximately $938 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

References:

1 Data on file

2 vVARDIS’ ranked first in growth rate in the 2024 vs 2023 and YTD June 2025 periods among dental manufacturers with more than $1M sales in both the all merchandise & small equipment categories and preventive in the U.S. (Source: SDM Northcoast, LLC).

3 Liu J et al. Int J Epidemiol. 2022;51:1291-1303

Photo credit: Jos Schmid, Photographer

A-dec Funds $1M Dental Scholarship Endowment

2026-04-24T13:42:00.006-04:00

The Dental Trade Alliance Foundation recently announced a transformative $1,000,000 endowment from A-dec, a leading global manufacturer of premium dental equipment and solutions and a DTA member company. This donation has established the A-dec Scholarship Fund, a permanent endowment designed to support education by providing scholarships for dental and dental hygiene students.

The endowment will provide ongoing financial support for students who demonstrate a strong commitment to serving their communities and expanding access to oral healthcare for underserved populations.

The gift represents one of the largest individual contributions to the Foundation’s scholarship initiatives to date and reinforces a shared commitment to advancing oral health through education, service, and leadership.

“Education and service are fundamental to strengthening oral healthcare in communities across the country,” said Jackie Michaels, managing director of the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation. “This generous endowment from A-dec will support future dental and dental hygiene professionals who are dedicated not only to clinical excellence but also to ensuring access to care for those who need it most.”

Through this endowment, scholarship funds will be awarded annually to students pursuing careers in dentistry and dental hygiene who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and a passion for improving access to oral healthcare.

“Education is fundamental to advancing dentistry,” said Marv Nelson, chief executive officer of A-dec. “By supporting the next generation of dental professionals, we are helping build a stronger, more accessible future for oral healthcare.”

The Dental Trade Alliance Foundation works to strengthen the dental industry through education, charitable initiatives, and workforce development programs. The Foundation provides scholarships, community outreach programs, and initiatives designed to improve oral health outcomes and support the future of the profession.

More information about the Foundation and its programs can be found at: https://dtafoundation.org.

Additional details about the A-dec Scholarship Fund will be announced as the program launches.

About the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation

The Dental Trade Alliance Foundation supports initiatives that advance oral health, strengthen the dental workforce, and expand access to care. Through scholarships, educational programs, and community partnerships, the Foundation invests in the future of dentistry and the professionals who serve patients across the country.

About A-dec

A-dec is a leading manufacturer of dental equipment and solutions used by dental professionals worldwide. For more than 60 years, A-dec has been committed to supporting the dental profession through innovation, education, and industry leadership.

To learn more about the vision behind the A-dec Scholarship Fund, watch “Empowering the Next Generation of Dental Professionals | A-dec + DTA Foundation.”

The Benefits and Challenges of SLS in Dental Products

2026-04-23T16:38:00.006-04:00

You may have noticed that more and more of your patients have started seeking toothpastes that are free of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). Why has this become a trend, and what are your patients’ concerns? Here’s what you need to know.

What Is SLS?

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant commonly used as a foaming agent in oral care products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes. Surfactants lower surface tension, allowing ingredients to spread more easily and interact with debris on tooth surfaces and oral tissues.

Because SLS creates a rich foam, many people assume that the foam itself enhances the product’s cleaning power. In reality, foam is largely a sensory byproduct of the surfactant’s action and does not directly improve cleansing efficacy. Debris removal is driven by the surfactant’s ability to interact with and lift particles, not by the foam itself.

In the United States, SLS is permitted for use in oral care products and is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under cosmetic and over-the-counter drug guidelines, depending on the product classification. When used at approved concentrations (typically 1-3%), SLS is considered safe for the general population. However, some individuals may experience irritation or sensitivity, particularly those with recurrent aphthous ulcers or mucosal sensitivity.

How Can SLS Affect Patients?

Many dental patients prefer products containing SLS because they associate foaming with cleanliness. They may also appreciate the familiar taste and the typically lower cost of SLS-containing formulations.

Studies have shown, however, that some patients have negative reactions to brushing with a toothpaste formulated with SLS. These effects have included oral lesions¹, inflammatory reactions of the anterior dorsal tongue², and oral mucosal desquamation³, or the peeling of the mouth’s lining. Especially for patients who are prone to mouth or tooth sensitivity, SLS products can exacerbate oral health issues rather than improve them.

Alternatives for Sensitive Patients

SLS remains an effective and FDA-approved surfactant that performs well in many toothpaste formulations. For patients without a history of mucosal sensitivity, aphthous ulcers, xerostomia, or irritation, an SLS-containing toothpaste may be perfectly appropriate and cost-effective. The presence of foam can also enhance patient satisfaction and perceived cleanliness, which may positively influence brushing compliance.

However, for patients who report recurrent canker sores, burning sensations, tissue sloughing, or generalized oral sensitivity, recommending an SLS-free formulation may be a simple and impactful modification. In these cases, reducing potential irritants can improve comfort and support long-term adherence to oral hygiene routines.

Ultimately, the decision should be patient-specific. Understanding both the functional role of SLS and the growing consumer preference for gentler formulations allows dental professionals to guide recommendations based on individual risk factors, clinical presentation, and patient comfort rather than marketing trends alone.

Many of the leading manufacturers of dental products make SLS-free formulas, which are often marketed for sensitive patients. TheraBreath™ Sensitive Toothpaste falls into this category, and follows the company’s philosophy of using intentionally sourced, effective ingredients. Its active ingredients are potassium nitrate 5% and sodium fluoride 0.24% (0.16% w/v fluoride ion), for caries prevention.

Sensitive Toothpaste uses several inactive ingredients, including Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, a gentle surfactant derived from coconuts, and sodium bicarbonate, commonly called baking soda. The formula whitens sensitive teeth without harsh abrasives. Patients can also enjoy long-lasting fresh breath.

Reviews of the Sensitive Toothpaste formula say it’s enjoyable and effective:

“As a dental hygienist I love to try new products to be able to recommend to my patients when needed. I have received this product at the right time. My husband was having sensitivity on a tooth, and I let him try this toothpaste. After two days of use, sensitivity went away. Definitely fast action!”

“The TheraBreath™ Sensitive Toothpaste has a great texture and taste. There’s no bad aftertaste and it felt gentle. It also didn’t cause dry mouth after like some other toothpastes I’ve tried before.”

“I can’t use a lot of toothpastes because I am allergic to SLS. The issue with a lot of SLS-free toothpastes is that they just aren’t very minty and don’t feel fresh. This toothpaste is SLS-free and has that fresh minty taste that I love.”

Sensitive Toothpaste is the latest addition to the TheraBreath™ line of dentist-formulated toothpastes for every patient need, from caries prevention and gum health to fresh breath and whitening. Each formula contains no alcohol, parabens, dyes, andsulfates. Patients’ dietary preferences are also taken into consideration, as all TheraBreath™ formulas are certified vegan, kosher, and halal.

Weiger R, Netuschil L, von Ohle C, Brecx M. Microbial vitality of supragingival dental plaque during initial stages of experimental gingivitis in humans. J Periodontal Res. 1995; 30: 204–209. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.1995.tb01275.x
Steinberg D, Bachrach G, Gedalia I, Abu-Ata S, Rozen R. Effects of various antiplaque agents on fructosyltransferase activity in solution and immobilized onto hydroxyapatite. Eur J Oral Sci. 2002; Oct;110(5):374-9. doi: 10.1034/j.1600-0722.2002.21303.x
Bowden GH, Hamilton IR. Survival of oral bacteria. Crit Rev Oral Biol Med. 1998;9(1):54–85. doi: 10.1177/10454411980090010401