From Dr. Suz Ahnquist - posted to ACE Email Network September 28, 2009
ACERs and friends and lurkers---
After spending a weekend at a recent course, I was thinking on the way home about how very fortunate for me to be a member of ACE. I have learned FAR AND AWAY more from this group, and the courses that are recommended AND offered at the meetings, than any other organization to which I have belonged....and there have been many. I feel I can get any mentor, any course, any email of any one I need to get info on any subject, any hands-on or any material needed for ANYTHING! I am just a phone call away from any need I may have, any problem I have encountered (and there have been many) or any shoulder for advice.
There are so many talents from which we can all pull, and all contribute, even in some small way to help any situation. No matter how successful, or how desperate one can be, there is always someone who will reach out.
Many of us have hit on high times, and very low times. The ACERs understand this. At one point each of us has experienced the diversity of successes, and can empathisize, encourage, recommend or pat on the back.
Without judgment. And more than dentistry.
Just wanted to say that.Suz (who is sounding like Ray) Love ya guys
Monday, September 28, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Dr. Tom Nabors to present at upcoming ACE 2009 Symposium on Periodontics & Systemic Health
Dr. Tom Nabors - "The Art and Science of Periodontal Medicine: Bridging the Chasm"
Synopsis: Our understanding of the cause and the progression of periodontal infections has changed. We now know that specific bacteria, bacterial load, and specific genetic traits are closely involved with this serious disease. As a result, the concept that “one size fits all” therapy is no longer applicable. Dental clinicians can now learn the exact disease they are treating and can “Personalize” therapy based on this new model of understanding.
Learning Objectives:
Synopsis: Our understanding of the cause and the progression of periodontal infections has changed. We now know that specific bacteria, bacterial load, and specific genetic traits are closely involved with this serious disease. As a result, the concept that “one size fits all” therapy is no longer applicable. Dental clinicians can now learn the exact disease they are treating and can “Personalize” therapy based on this new model of understanding.
Learning Objectives:
- How science is changing: Why and How we treat periodontal infections.
- Why having a Risk Model based on actual Causation and Genetics is critical to successful therapy.
- How to use modern medical tests for periodontal disease diagnosis and monitoring of therapy before the loss of attachment occurs.
For more information and registration visit http://www.acescottsdale2009.com/
Friday, September 11, 2009
Top 10 FAQ's about ACE 2009 Symposium on Periodontics & Systemic Health!
Top 10 FAQ's about ACE 2009 Symposium on Periodontics & Systemic Health!
1. Why should I go to this meeting?
a. The Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics® (ACE™) is a community of dedicated dental professionals who strive to provide excellent patient care and who, through education, camaraderie, sharing of information & mentoring both in person & online, help each other succeed in the business of dentistry and life.
b. The ACE 2009 Symposium on Periodontics & Systemic Health being held November 12-14, 2009 at the Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch promises to be our best event to date!
2. Who should attend?
a. Ideally, everyone on your team should attend.
b. If that's not realistically possible, then you should consider taking your key team members; those who are early implementers and have the ability to grasp ideas & concepts quickly and can teach them to other team members.
3. What will I learn?
a. This program has been specifically designed to incorporate both scientific data & practical information to allow you to understand the most current concepts in Periodontics & Systemic Health and be able to introduce them into your practice seamlessly and profitably.
b. You will learn the latest in why, where and how to treat periodontal disease and its overall effect on the human body. This is powerful information that both you & your dental hygiene team will be able to use in helping your patients live longer, healthier, happier lives.
4. Where should I stay?
a. ACE has made arrangements with the beautiful Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona for a special room rate. To receive the special rate you must contact the hotel directly by calling 800-233-1234 and use the code words, "Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics."
b. The Hyatt Resort is just a short cab or shuttle ride from the Phoenix International Airport. Additional travel information is available on the website www.ACEScottsdale2009.com.
5. What should I wear?
a. Business Casual attire is recommended for ACE meetings and social events, however you can expect to see some folks in business suits and others in shorts. There is quite an eclectic group of people who attend our events and they dress according to their personal preferences.
b. The temperature in Arizona in November is quite comfortable. You can expect daytime highs in the 80s and nighttime lows in the 50s.
c. As is typical with most seminars, there will be air conditioning so you may want to wear long pants and bring a sweater or light jacket to the meeting rooms that you can remove if you get warm.
6. Are there CE credits available?
a. Yes, ACE is an approved ADA CERP provider. You can receive up to 24 hours of approved Dental Continuing Education for attending this event.
b. Information on obtaining CE credit will be available at the meeting registration desk throughout the meeting and online afterwards.
7. Are there any social events?
a. Yes, there are 2 planned social events.
b. On Thursday November 12 there is a meet & greet cocktail reception with food stations in the exhibit hall. This event allows you to mingle with fellow attendees and sponsors in a non-threatening environment. It's been our traditional way of "breaking the ice" and is something that returning ACE attendees look forward to! Folks tend to dress more comfortably for this event. We usually tell folks to dress like they would if they were going out to a nice restaurant.
c. On Saturday November 14 there is a Grand Finale Dinner & Party. This is a sit-down dinner event where you'll have a chance to recap this great event with old & new friends and enjoy each other's company. We usually have a fun surprise or two for this party and this year will be no exception! Folks tend to dress more impressively for this event. We usually tell folks to dress like they would if they were going out to a fine restaurant.
8. Is this just going to be a 3 day sales pitch to buy other courses or items?
a. Absolutely not! We won't allow it! This program has been specifically tailored towards a better scientific understanding of the connection between Periodontal disease & Systemic disease and utilizing information to diagnose & treat your patients. We want you to have the latest information and show you how to use it!
b. You will be introduced to different concepts that people are using around the country (and the world) for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease and will have an opportunity in the exhibit hall to evaluate and learn more about new technologies that will help you accomplish your individual goals for your practice.
9. How much does it cost?
a. Tuition fees include admission to all listed food & social events and range from $1495 to $295 depending on whether you are a Doctor, Dental Hygienist, Lab Technician, Team Member or Guest; and whether you are a dues-paying member of ACE.
b. Because the information presented at this meeting is the most timely on Periodontics & Systemic Health and you have the opportunity to hear all of the key opinion leaders in this field in one location, your overall savings is priceless!
c. Detailed fees can be found on the meeting website at www.ACEScottsdale2009.com.
10. How do I register?
a. There are 2 ways to register: visit www.ACEScottsdale2009.com for secure online registration or call us at 800-701-6223 and we'll register you by phone.
If you have any additional questions that haven't been answered here, please contact us at Contact@ACEsthetics.com and we'll be happy to answer them.
We look forward to seeing you at the
ACE 2009 Symposium on Periodontics & Systemic Health from November 12-14, 2009 at the Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Thought for Apr 23...
The basic division among humans is between those who hope and those who accept the unjust status quo.
John Carmody
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Thought for Apr 22...
Friends always answer when you call, reach out and help you when you fall; they strengthen you in times of stress and add much to your happiness.
William Arthur Ward
Monday, April 20, 2009
Thought for Apr 20...
You are your own greatest asset—there is nothing you cannot do.
No one can keep you from dreaming your dreams,
and only you can prevent them from coming true.
Your achievements are not determined by your ability alone,
but by the desire you possess to reach them.
There are no worlds outside of those you create for yourself,
and the only boundaries are those
you establish and choose to live within.
Never be afraid to defend your decisions, regardless.
No one can possibly know what is best for you other than yourself.
Terry Everton
Friday, April 17, 2009
HoeDown ThrowDown Video
The FAMOUS HoeDown ThrowDown spoof video that my daughter's made at their sleepover the other night. Many of you have already heard the story about how I woke up at 2am to find every light in my house on and no one around. Here's the reason why!
I have to admit...I love the video!
I have to admit...I love the video!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Pulpdent Introduces Invisible Veneer Cement
PULPDENT INTRODUCES FIRST INVISIBLE VENEER CEMENT
Kleer-Veneer is a unique, moisture tolerant, self-adhesive veneer cement. No bonding agents or silane are required. The distinctive consistency holds the veneer securely in place without drift before light curing.
Kleer-Veneer is available in clear, opaque white, opaque cream, and opaque pink. The clear cement is invisible and does not alter tooth shade. The opaque shades can be used when neutralizing existing tooth color is desired.
The Kleer-Veneer intro kit contains four 1.2ml syringes, one of each shade, plus 20 applicator tips. Refills contain one 1.2ml syringe Kleer-Veneer plus 10 applicator tips.
Pulpdent manufactures high-quality products for the dental profession, including adhesives, composites, sealants, cements, etching gels, calcium hydroxide products, endodontic specialties and bonding accessories. For more
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
New Mydent Pouch with Dual Indicator
NEW MYDENT POUCH FEATURES DUAL INTERNAL INDICATOR
Defend+Plus pouches feature the same superior design and quality construction of standard Defend® pouches, but include a built-in dual internal indicator (Steam and ETO). This allows the user to see that the correct sterilization temperature is reached within the instrument compartment without having to place an indicator strip inside the pouch. The dual internal indicator provides an extra measure of security.
Defend+Plus Pouches with Built-In Dual Internal Indicator are offered in five sizes, packaged 200 to a box, and are available from most dental dealers.
Mydent International, home to Defend® infection control products, disposables, and impression material systems, provides dependable solutions for defensive healthcare. Mydent urges healthcare professionals to: DEFEND. Be smart. Be safe. For more
Monday, March 30, 2009
Thanks to everyone for a GREAT Marketing Event!
The ACE 2009 Conference on Dental Marketing & Web Optimization held this past weekend had lots of fantastic ideas to keep your dental practice at the forefront of the curve during these difficult economic times. Thanks to all of our speakers for their outstanding presentations and especially Dr. John Sullivan and Dr. Jason Olitsky for taking the time out of their busy dental practices to share their experience with the group.
**BE SURE TO READ TO THIS ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR SOME SPECIAL MESSAGES AND OFFERS FROM OUR SPEAKERS/SPONSORS**
Many of the ideas that were presented either helped save money or cost little to no money at all to implement.
Two of the best ideas that everyone agreed on at the meeting were:
- Save money by switching over your credit card processing to Todd Odasz at Wholesale Transactions. This will save the average ACE member $3000 - $7000 per year on credit card processing fees per year depending on the size of your practice and volume of transactions.
- Utilize video testimonials and get them on the web. Smile Reminder, New Patients Inc and VeneerVideo.com all earned praise for doing this for their clients.
- Smile Reminder has been at the forefront of utilizing technology for maintaining contact with dental patients and they have simplified the process of getting in-office video testimonials from patients and getting them uploaded immediately to the web and then shared online through programs like DIGG, Facebook and other applications. Jim Higgins shared several great examples of how to do this easily and make it easy for your patients to share these videos with their friends, family & co-workers.
- VeneerVideo.com and Jamie Lynch earned top marks for the BEST video productions that we've seen in dentistry. Jamie has such a unique style in production and thinks outside the box when it comes to taking something as mundane and boring as dentistry and making it exciting. Click on the link to view some of the cool things he's done for his clients. Jamie truly understands the concept of viral marketing and his videos present you & your practice in a way that is eye-catching and exciting for people to watch and pass on to others.
- Howie, Mark & the rest of the nice people at New Patients Inc are doing some nice things with video on their clients sites. The presentation that Howie & Mark gave showcased how important video is going to be in the new SEO rankings. They have done their research and are positioning their clients to be ahead of the curve, while at the same time, understanding the keywords that people are looking for in the information that they are typing into onine search engines and utilizing them in the video.
We had a host of fantastic sponsors at this event and all of them had a product or service that truly could benefit any dental practice. Please take a moment to look through the links and view what these companies have to offer your practice.
Springstone Patient Financing - Take a fresh approach to patient financing with Springstone. Innovative process. The most experienced team in the business. Online training. Refreshing customer service. All you expect...and more. We put patients and practices first—every day, every time.
TNT Dental - Your Internet Partner - The Future of Dental Practice Marketing - The Internet holds the future for dental marketing, so align your practice for success by partnering with the leader in dental Website design, TNT Dental. We have helped general dentists, specialists, educators, and consultants in the dental field realize the many benefits of a professional, customized dental Websites. We also offer complete hosting support, including email addresses, as well as services and products to improve your Website marketing strategy, like search engine optimization and blogs. If you're ready to claim your place on the Internet, call the experts in dental Websites design. We look forward to partnering with you in your online marketing success.
Golden Proportions Marketing - Xana Winans kicked off the meeting with a fast-paced presentation full of great ideas. She is making that information available to everyone on the website. GPM is a full service firm specializing in healthcare marketing and advertising that reaches, educates and motivates the right patients. We know marketing. We know healthcare. And we know your patients. Yes, we're thrilled that our custom marketing materials have earned prestigious awards. But more importantly, we are fulfilled and fueled by developing strategic plans and creating materials that work for our clients by producing measurable results – bringing the right patients to their practices. We can bring the right patient to your door, too. Want to know more? Keep on reading, view our portfolio or contact us today.
Dental Ceramics USA - Dental Ceramics, located in Cleveland Ohio, is a full service lab specializing in aesthetic dentistry and serving dentists throughout the country. Dental Ceramics prides itself on excellence in clinical communication and excellent service with clients. Through ongoing education and direct communication with dentists about cases, Dental Ceramics is able to provide the latest in techniques and the best products available. John Lavicka, CDT is going to be the host for our upcoming ACE 2009 Conference on Minimal Prep Veneers being held in Cleveland on June 5-6, 2009. He has offered to host a golf outing at the world famous Firestone Country Club for those interested who will be attending the conference. Play will occur either Thursday June 4 or Sunday June 6. Please ask about it when you register and we'll let John know how many are interested in playing.
Dear Doctor Magazine - Focusing on the important relationship that exists between the patient and doctor, Dear Doctor provides patient education allowing for more confident and improved health care decisions. Written by the Country's Leading Acamedicians, this 68 page patient education magazine covers all aspects of dentistry and incorporates a unique ability to market your practice. The result is an authoritative, educational resource that builds credibility and loyalty with your patients. Dear Doctor provides innovative and effective marketing solutions for your dental practice to grow and prosper. Our marketing options are tailored to your specific office needs and are designed for all budgets. Dear Doctor makes the creative process easy and produces high quality, high impact marketing pieces wrapped within the finest patient education magazine in dentistry today. Learn how Dear Doctor can help your practice find a marketing solution that's right for you!
SEO.cc - Online marketing is the ultimate tool for reaching your potential customers and monitoring their actions in response to your message. How do you choose an online marketing program that fits your company? Where can you find an online marketing program that delivers extraordinary marketing Returns on Investment (ROIs)? You've come to the right place- a place where SEO makes marketing online easy. SEO is one of the leading online marketing agencies. Its background encompasses a team of mixed skill-sets and experiences all funneled into one objective: delivering increased marketing ROIs by reaching highly targeted audiences through online marketing. SEO's reputation is held with much respect among its existing clients. So, whether you're a business owner, marketing director searching for an agency to take the reins or a traditional marketing agency looking for a professional firm to outsource your Online Marketing, let SEO become your guide as you embark upon today's emerging online marketing mediums. Set sail and you'll find the insight and information you need right here.
Sikka Software - Sikka Software Corporation is the leading innovator in developing Business Intelligence Software for the Dental Community. Our Software Products enable Dental offices to take control of the business and clinical aspects of managing the Day to Day operations which have over time become more complex and involved. Having control of the Management aspects of a dental practice translates into having more time and resources devoted to the clinical aspects of a practice. Providing automated accurate data to the Dentist and Team in an efficient, reliable manner allows the Dental Team to strive for a higher standard of care and promotes better business practices. Sikka Software Products integrate seamlessly with all major Practice Management and Financial Systems, presenting the data in graphical and/or tabular formats, automated reports and fully customizable modules. We provide unlimited training and support, we provide you with remote access to your data from anywhere in the world through HIPAA compliant technology and incorporate the latest in Net Microsoft Smart technology to give you the tools and systems to manage your office effortlessly. Our Business Intelligence Products allow you to monitor the heartbeat of your practice with the touch of a button. A world leader in providing Dental Practices with 21st Century tools to take management control of the business of dentistry.
Yodle.com - Yodle makes getting new customers easier and more affordable than ever. Promote Your Business We promote your business on the leading search engines and local sites - like Google (R), Yahoo!, MSN and Ask.com - where people are actively searching for your services. Persuade Your Prospects When someone clicks on your advertising, we send them to a website personalized for your business that encourages them to pick up the phone and call or inquire online. Get You Calls! And we not only make your phone ring - we track the success of your advertising every step of the way. So you know exactly how your investment with Yodle is performing.
Loyal Patients Inc. - Our Loyal Patient™ Rewards program utilizes a patent-pending technology to provide a turnkey patient loyalty solution rewarding patients for the behaviors that benefit their oral health and drive profits to your practice, without burdening you or your staff. The program is designed to help dentists fully monetize the value of your current patient base. Already used successfully by some of the nation's largest corporations for millions of their customers, the program has been completely customized for dentistry and your unique needs. We focus on internal marketing, helping you generate more revenue and high-quality referrals from existing patients. This is historically a very cost-effective way to build a quality patient base, complementing traditional new patient acquisition advertising. Loyal Patient™ Rewards is much more than a simple communication system, and much more than the "advice" generally offered to make patients more receptive to your services. Loyal Patient Rewards is an affordable turnkey solution that automatically provides proven, compelling rewards to drive profitable, healthy behaviors, including:
 | Recommending new patients; |
| Returning for treatment after a long absence (reactivating a dormant patient); |
| Engaging in elective procedures; and |
| Attending scheduled appointments (keeping the hygiene chair full) |
We invite you to learn more by viewing the information contained here, and look forward to serving your office and rewarding your patients.
Locate-A-Doc - Fill your waiting room without emptying your wallet. The premier physician directory on the Internet invites you to add your free listing today. Tired of telemarketing to get new patients? Is direct mail really getting you quality patients that keep your practice running successfully? Make it easy for patients to come to YOU with LocateADoc.com, the place where the ideal patient contacts your practice for more information - every week, every month and for years to come. No marketing phone calls. No expensive brochure mailings. No complicated online promotions that waste your marketing budget. LocateADoc.com is the web's premier patient referral and lead generation system, the place to get listed and start getting leads directly to your inbox. We don't just deliver clicks - we deliver pre-qualified, quality patient leads so you can build your practice with ease.
Brican America - Exhibeo - Exhibeo, by Brican America, LLC is so versatile it can make any wall your own Medical & Promotional Information Center. Because of Exhibeo's unique, conceptual ability that brings doctor and patient that much closer. Through entertaining dissemination of messages designed expressly for practices like yours. Imagine patient education without the need for you or a member of your staff to explain what a few well-crafted images can relay. Thanks to high-tech, visually-stimulating presentations produced by Brican America just for you.
Infinity Dental Web - Infinity Dental Web builds and maintains dental websites. We have particular expertise in cosmetic dentistry dental websites, since our president and main content writer is an accredited cosmetic dentist. Our Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and content specialist is Dr. David Hall, an accredited cosmetic dentist who has been doing dental SEO since the mid-nineties. There may be no one else with more combined knowledge of cosmetic dentistry and Internet marketing. Put him to work for you.
Snap Dental Imaging - The absolute fastest and easiest simulation means that you (or your assistant) are much more likely to actually use it! Many otherwise excellent systems remain unused in the office place because they either take too much time, are hard to use, or both. SNAP's "Procedure Orientated" operation is much easier to use than old style "tool" orientated programs. A subtle marketing tool. With SNAP, cosmetic procedures sell themselves. If you show your patients the visual benefits of a procedure before it is performed, they will be much more likely to accept the procedure immediately. For example, if your cosmetic case acceptance rate is now 70%, and SNAP helps you snag even half of the remainder... do the math. Built-in patient education system is a constantly working marketing tool. It acts as a "Slide Show" that can be routed to televisions or monitors in the office, so waiting patients can see the before and after benefits of the cosmetic procedures you have to offer. SNAP produces professional presentations automatically, in just a few minutes.
If you were not at this event, you really missed out on some fantastic ideas. Next year's event will be held at the same location, beautiful Tampa, Florida on March 19-20, 2010. Please mark off your calendars now to plan for this event. These marketing events only get better and better each year!
Note: Dr. John Sullivan has graciously offered to share copies of his magazine ads with everyone. He will be developing a web page containing all of the ads and sharing that page with the group.
**PLEASE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND OUR NEXT EVENT**
ACE Cleveland 2009 - Conference on Minimal Prep Veneers ~
June 5-6, 2009 ~ Cleveland, OH ~ Call 800-701-6223 to Register Today!
John Lavicka, CDT is going to be the host for our upcoming ACE 2009 Conference on Minimal Prep Veneers being held in Cleveland on June 5-6, 2009. He has offered to host a golf outing at the world famous Firestone Country Club for those interested who will be attending the conference. Play will occur either Thursday June 4 or Sunday June 6. Please ask about it when you register and we'll let John know how many are interested in playing.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Stress leads to teeth clenching
Dentists: Stress leads to teeth clenching
The daily grind-ing
By Jessica Fargen | Monday, March 2, 2009 | http://www.bostonherald.com | Hard Times
Photo by
The sinking economy, joblessness and 401(k) crashes have created so much stress that some
“This is by far the worst I have ever seen,” said Dr. David Harte, a 30-year
Dentists at Varinos Dental Associates in
“They are waking up with headaches and jaw pain,” she said.
Stress is one cause of teeth grinding and clenching, and can result in worn-down teeth or chipped teeth, tender gums, headaches, severe jaw pain, neck aches and muscle spasms.
Fixing the problem can be costly. A new crown on a fractured tooth can cost hundreds of dollars, and a dentist-designed mouth guard run as much as $600.
Holistic Technologies in
“When people get more stressed, they tend to clench more,” said CEO Lee Weinstein.
Wendy, a
“It just got progressively bad because of all the stress going on,” said Wendy, who didn’t want her last name used to protect her privacy. “I’d wake up in the middle of the night with the grinding. I’d wake up totally unrested.”
One
“In dentistry, when you don’t have things fixed, they don’t get better, they get worse,” said Milton A. Glicksman, president of the Massachusetts Dental Society. “You’ll find people who feel they cannot afford to go to the dentist, and that’s where you’ll find the biggest impact.”
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/hard_times/view.bg?articleid=1155597
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Dentists: Smiling in the Face of Recession
Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009
Dentists: Smiling in the Face of Recession
The one guy is 63, just lost his job at a health insurer, and is afraid he'll never find another one. The other has three kids, one in college, and lost his construction job. The stress caused them to grind their canines and molars. So they each wound up in the office of Dr. Woody Oakes, a dentist from New Albany, Ind., with a fractured tooth. "You do see that — someone lost their job, and they come in with their jaws clenched," says Oakes, who is also editor of the Profitable Dentist magazine. "You can fracture your teeth when you do that."
There's at least one profession for which the recession might not bite: dentistry. According to Sageworks, a firm that tracks private-company financial performance, dentists' offices had higher profit margins than any other industry in 2008. With average profit margins at 17%, dentistry outpaced accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services, legal services and mining support services among the top five performing professions in '08. Dental margins rose about 1.5% from 2007, according to Sageworks. (Read "25 People to Blame for the Financial Crisis.")
What could be keeping dentistry strong during this recession? Sure, tooth-grinding and nervous eating habits — I'm going to chomp on chocolate as an escape — may be driving traffic to the drill. But economic forces are more likely to be responsible. Dentists note that patients who receive limited or no insurance tend to skip cleanings and other dental maintenance during tough times as they look to save a few bucks. But dentists pick up even more revenue later on. Patients who've skipped checkups now have achy teeth and have no choice but to undergo a more expensive procedure. "It's human nature to say, 'I can't afford that right now, and if it doesn't hurt, I don't have a problem,'" says Dr. Lawrence Spindel, a dentist in New York City. "Then all of a sudden you need a root canal."
At the same time, insured patients want to hit the chair while they're still lucky enough to have the insurance. "We're seeing that a lot of folks are fearful of losing their jobs," says Rick Willeford, founder and president of the Academy of Dental CPAs, whose members provide accounting and tax-prep work for some 7,000 dentists across the country. "So they want to use their benefits. That has helped keep revenues strong." Spindel, who had his best year ever in 2008, says last spring he saw a "miniboomlet" in these types of cases. "People know that if they're going to lose their job, they damn well better use their dental insurance," Spindel says. "They say, 'Do as much as you can do, and you need to do it within 30 days!' "
Read "The Year in Medicine 2008: From A to Z."
You would think cosmetic dentistry would completely collapse during a recession. Who wants to part with thousands of dollars just to look good? But some evidence suggests that this business is still healthy. For example, sales of Snap-on Smile, a cosmetic device that snaps over your teeth, rose 22.2% in the fourth quarter of '08 compared with the third quarter. December sales were 62% higher than those in October. The device costs between $2,500 and $4,000 for a full-mouth restoration, a much cheaper alternative than restorative veneers, which can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Snap-on Smile CEO Adam Cotumaccio has heard feedback that some patients buy the product for very practical purposes. "In this job market, you want to feel good, you want to look good going into an interview," says Cotumaccio. Plus, people are still spending money on big-ticket dentistry. Dr. Cary Ganz, a dentist from Garden City, N.Y., has done several $50,000-to-$60,000 procedures this year. "It has amazed me," says Ganz, who also reports having his best year ever. "Regardless of the economy, people still have the need to take care of themselves."
Dentistry is not pain-free. Willeford reports an overall fourth-quarter slowdown among the Academy of Dental CPAs' clients. These dentists serve patients across a broad socioeconomic spectrum. "We're seeing a lot more open appointment books through March," says Willeford. "If people keep losing jobs, we're going to edge off a cliff." Dr. Roger Levin, CEO of the Levin Group, a dental-management consultancy, is also very cautious. "Traditionally, it takes six to 12 months for economic trends to affect dental practice," he says. "The full impact of the downturn may be yet to come."
Dentists should still stay warily optimistic, however. "People think, Rather than lose all this money in the market," says Ganz, "I might as well put it my mouth."
Copyright © 2009 Time Inc. All rights reserved
Friday, February 6, 2009
Mydent Introduces Trap-Ez Filters
MYDENT INTRODUCES Trap-Ez DISPOSABLE FILTERS
Defend® Trap-Ez Disposable Filters are designed to replace the trap in cuspidors and evacuation systems, improving performance while reducing the potential for contamination. Filters are available to fit virtually every canister, saliva ejector, and cuspidor bowl on the market. Filters are also available that fit like a cap on any standard high-volume evacuator tip.
Defend® Trap-Ez Disposable Filters are packaged 144 to a box and are available from most dental dealers. The product can be seen at the Mydent booth, #1017, at the Chicago Midwinter meeting.
Mydent International, home to Defend® infection control products, disposables, and impression material systems, provides dependable solutions for defensive healthcare. Mydent urges healthcare professionals to: DEFEND. Be smart. Be safe. For more
###
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Watch Seal teeth
drmikemaroon@gmail.com wants to share this video with you:
Personal Message
Even seals need fresh breath!
Seal teeth
Video:
(Boston Globe) Video by David L. Ryan; produced by Chona Camomot, Globe Staff
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1119284117/bctid10122749001
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
HELP NEEDED - EVERYONE PLEASE READ
This message is extremely important. Please read to the end. Thank you.
Dear Friends,
In the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”, Jimmy Stewart’s character, George Bailey, is seen throughout the movie as always putting others first instead of himself. It’s a great character trait and one that all of us at ACE have tried to emulate by putting all of you first. In the movie, George Bailey gets into some financial difficulty and doesn’t know where to turn for money to keep the business going…oh, he asks the curmudgeon old Mr. Potter who’s trying to take over the town by buying everyone up, but Potter tells him he’s going to go to prison. George is extremely distraught and thinks that the only way that he can make things right is by taking his own life and allowing his heirs to cash in on his life insurance policy. Well, we all know where the story goes, an angel named Clarence comes down and shows George what life would be like if he weren’t born. It’s one of the most powerful sections of a movie that you will ever witness because it makes the viewer realize how important life is and how each of our lives are intertwined. Well, there is a happy ending to this story as George’s wife (leave it to a woman to figure out the easy solution) asks the people who George has helped throughout his life to now come and help him…and they do. George makes enough money to keep his business open and Clarence even gets some wings.
Right now, ACE is kind of like George Bailey when he doesn’t know where to turn.
Tim, Anthony, Pete & I have put approximately ½ million of our own money into ACE with no financial gain whatsoever and unfortunately, in today’s economic climate, that just isn’t going to cut it. We don’t have many employees working for us…it’s just us four guys and the amazing support, volunteerism and generosity of others. We’ve spent the last 10 years bringing people together and helping others share information and improve their businesses and lives. We don’t need an angel to show us the impact that we’ve made on people’s lives…we know we’ve made a difference and have been blessed to be able to do so. Now, we need your help to keep this organization going. We’re not asking for much, but we need everyone reading this to help.
If you’ve ever received one bit of useful information from ACE…
If you’ve ever met a colleague who has become a great friend through ACE…
If you’ve ever needed help from ACE and we’ve answered your call…
If you’ve just needed someone to share your feelings with on business & life and ACE has been there…
If you look forward to getting the latest information about dentistry with your friends at ACE…
We need your financial support and we need your help to make ACE better…here’s how in 4 Easy Steps:
Step 1: Become a member.
Not just a lurker or someone who participates occasionally, but a full-fledged dues-paying card-carrying member! Membership helps us to help you because the more members we have the more we can negotiate with companies and get special discounts on products and services. Basically, by becoming a member you are helping yourself, helping ACE and helping your fellow members.
Doctor Membership is only $300/year
that’s just $25/month or 82 cents a day…less than a cup of coffee for all the great information that you receive.
Hygiene Membership is only $50/year
that’s just $4.16/month or 14 cents a day…you can’t even get candy anymore for that price!
Please take a moment to help us help you. If you’ve ever received one piece of worthwhile information that has helped you in practice or life, please show your support by becoming a member and allowing us to pass along the same opportunity to you in the future as well as to others. Without your ongoing financial support, ACE can’t exist. I know that the information and support that I get from ACE is priceless and worth so much more than the membership dues. I hope you feel the same way too. Remember, the benefits that we have negotiated from companies in products and services can save you thousands of dollars. So we’re asking for a little and giving you back a lot. Please help today.
CLICK HERE TO BECOME AN ACE MEMBER TODAY AND LEARN MORE ABOUT BENEFITS!
Step 2: Attend an ACE event.
We develop and design ACE events based on the hot topics that are being discussed online. This means that ACE events are timely and give you more in-depth information than what you will get anywhere else. If you have been to an event in the past, thank you. If you’ve never been to an ACE event, please make 2009 the year you decide to join us at one (or more) events. We have programs on NeuroMuscular Dentistry, Marketing, Minimal-Prep Veneers and our annual Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry planned. You can find information on upcoming events at http://www.acesthetics.com/ or call Peter Maroon at 800-701-6223 and he’ll personally speak with you, happily answer any questions you may have, and get you registered.
If everyone who reads this attended just one ACE event this year, we would have more than enough money to keep ACE going strong.
We have 3 remaining events this year featuring timely information on hot topics in dentistry.
ACE Tampa 2009 – Conference on Dental Marketing & Web Optimization ~ Mar 27-28, 2009
ACE Cleveland 2009 – Conference on Minimal & No prep Veneers ~ June 5-6, 2009
ACE Scottsdale 2009 – Symposium on Esthetic Dentistry ~ Nov 11-14, 2009
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR UPCOMING ACE EVENTS!
Step 3: Get involved.
In 2009 and beyond, we want your input and ideas. We have a wonderful variety of great thinkers on our forum and we would love to hear your suggestions and get you involved in making ACE exactly what you want it to be! If you’re interested in serving on a committee, helping out with an event, or have any other great ideas that can make our organization better…we’re all ears…and we want you involved! Please tell us how we can make ACE better! If you are interesting in getting more involved with ACE…in any capacity…please email us at contact@ACEsthetics.com.
Doctors, Hygienists & Lab Technicians, you can help your business, your patients, yourself and ACE by going through the Fellowship process and achieving ACE Fellowship. Those who have undertaken the process can tell you that ACE Fellowship is a fair & balanced test of knowledge and skill in all phases of Esthetic Dentistry. Fellowship is a great way to challenge yourself to be the best possible dental practitioner you can be. We invite you to face the challenge.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ACE FELLOWSHIP!
We have several manufacturers and labs who participate on our forum and you realize how beneficial it is to have access to these amazing participants on our email network. You can do your part by becoming a sponsor at one (or more) of our events and making an offer to ACE members that they can’t receive anywhere else. ACE is a fantastic place to position your company’s product or service in front of leading professionals in the US and around the world. More than that…we invite you to participate with us on a daily basis. It benefits everyone when manufacturers and dental labs participate with our doctors, hygienists and team members because we’re all tied together in the dental circle of life.CLICK HERE TO EMAIL PETER MAROON OR CALL 800-701-6223 AND SPEAK WITH HIM TO HAVE YOUR COMPANY BE MORE INVOLVED WITH ACE!
Step 4: Tell a colleague about ACE.
Like all good things, ACE is meant to be shared with colleagues and friends who can use an uplifting message and a show of support in the business of dentistry and life. We need you to CARE TO SHARE! Just like ACE supports each of us everyday, we want to be able to do the same for others. Don’t worry, we promise we won’t grow so big that we lose our close-knit intimacy (…how big can you get with no employees? :D) …we just want to be able to help folks who are going through challenges that we’ve faced by supporting them, giving them valuable information and allowing them to see how good things can really be in dentistry…and just like our practices grow and get energized with new patients, so too will ACE get energized with new members. Let’s make ACE a better organization in 2009 by inviting people that we want to be involved with the group! It only takes a moment of your time and the rewards will be exponential for everyone. When you refer someone to ACE and they become a dues-paying member, we will credit you $100 off any meeting tuition for 1 year. That means that the more people you invite to ACE the less it will cost you to enjoy the benefits of attending an ACE event. It’s a win-win for everyone!
How many times in life do you say to people, “If you need help, just ask.”, but how many people really ask when they need your help. I don’t know if it’s pride or not wanting to come across as a failure or whatever other reasons that hold us back from asking for help, but it takes strength and courage to realize that you can’t do it all on your own. That’s why...
It has taken us a long time to ASK FOR YOUR HELP!
We are so proud of all that we have accomplished with ACE so far; the friendships and relationships that have come together because of us; the people we have helped through difficult times in their lives, whether it’s the loss of a loved one or the struggles of a relationship or the difficulties in running a business; we know that there has been a lot of good that has already come out of our efforts and that is priceless to us. What really eats away at us is that without your support, ACE will not survive and if ACE doesn’t survive, we won’t be able to help more people in dentistry and life the way we’ve helped you. That’s why we really are making this appeal to you to help us out.
Help us help you!
Become a Member – Come to a Meeting – Get Involved – Tell a Friend
If you’ve gotten this far, thanks for reading this message the entire way through and God Bless you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Maroon
Dr. Tim Hale
Dr. Anthony Vocaturo
Peter Maroon
Monday, February 2, 2009
CHECK THIS OUT!!! ACE Tampa 2009 Conference on Dental Marketing & Web Optimization
I just made my flight reservations for the ACE Tampa 2009 - Conference on Dental Marketing & Web Optimization and flights were only $99 each way!
I'm also bringing along two of my front admin team who work with me on marketing the practice.
Can't wait to see everyone and learn some new tips to improve our marketing efforts and keep our practice financially strong during this economic slowdown.
Get registered for this event today at www.ACETampa2009.com or call Peter at 800-701-6223.
AIRFARE IS RIDICULOUSLY LOW!
The website has details on special room rates at the hotel.
It's only about 8 weeks away...don't delay!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Isolite(TM) Dryfield Illuminator Wins "Townie Choice" Award for the Fourth Straight Year
Jan. 29, 2009 21:43 UTC
Isolite™ Dryfield Illuminator Wins “Townie Choice” Award for the Fourth Straight Year
Hot Product is Fueling Company's Growth; 2009 Brings New Facility and Expanded Staffing
The Isolite dryfield illuminator is an innovative dental tool that combines the functions of light, suction and retraction into a single device solving many of the frustrations that dental professionals deal with on a daily basis.
Isolite Systems is using the momentum of this and other recent product accolades to grow its business in a time when many businesses are contracting. This year, the company will be adding additional staff and moving into a new facility in
“We launched our original Isolite through the Dentaltown web community, and if it wasn’t for the ‘Townies’, we’d never be where we are today,” said Sandi Hirsch, General Manager of Isolite Systems. “We owe the ‘Townies’ a debt of gratitude.”
Hirsch added that because the Isolite increases dental operatory productivity by 20 - 30%, its popularity is leading to increased business and company growth.
The “Townie Choice” Awards were started by Dr. Howard Farran and Farran Media in 2003 to assist dentists in making product purchasing decisions, and are considered the “people’s choice” of the products and services available in the dental industry today. The Isolite dryfield illuminator was the winner in the category of Prosthodontics, Restorative Dentistry and Cheek Retraction Materials. Voting for the awards was open to more than 100,000 registered members of the Dentaltown interactive community (www.dentaltown.com) and readers of Dentaltown magazine.
“When I was in dental school we had to use rubber dams,” said Mark J. Fleming, DDS, of
Tiffany Lee, DDS, of
“Isolite allowed me to work solo and provide dentistry to 50 orphaned children in
The “Townie Choice” Award is the latest recognition garnered by Isolite Systems and its popular device, and is one of five accolades received from the dental publishing industry in 2008. Those accolades include:
- Named by Dentistry Today magazine as one of its Top 100 Products for 2008
- Named to Dental Product Reports magazine's Top 100 Products of Distinction for 2008
- Received a 4.8 rating (out of a possible 5.0) and named a “Best Product 2008” by Dental Product Shopper magazine
- Named to Dentalcompare’s Top 108 Products for 2008
Isolite Systems was founded by Thomas R. Hirsch, DDS, and his brother, industrial product designer, James A. Hirsch, in 2000 to bring to market the Isolite dryfield illuminator and other dental products. The company holds more than a dozen
About Isolite Systems
Isolite Systems is committed to transcending the limitations of existing dental technology with innovative, ergonomically efficient products that help dental professionals work more productively with less stress and fatigue. Dentists, dental assistants and hygienists at dental practices and clinics throughout
Contacts
Isolite Systems
Maureen Sullivan, Director of Marketing
805-560-9888
msullivan@isolitesystems.com
Source: Isolite Systems
Smart Multimedia Gallery
Thomas R. Hirsch, DDS, and James A. Hirsch, co-creators of the Isolite dryfield illuminator, are shown with Sandi Hirsch, General Manager of Isolite Systems. Summer Clark (seated) demonstrates the four-time "Townie Choice" award-winning dental device. (Photo: Business Wire)
View this news release and multimedia online at:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20090129006277/en
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