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Entries from February 2006

Odyssey Laser

February 28th, 2006 · No Comments

The diode laser uses a fiber optic cord which needs to be trimmed about a centimeter after each use, which means the fiber eventually dwindles to nothing and needs to be replaced. To accommodate this diode laser fibers come in lengths several feet long. When a new fiber is attached it is awkward and in the way, however an even bigger problem is that the fibers are somewhat delicate and can easily be damaged. A damaged fiber must be replaced at a cost of many hundreds of dollars.
The Ivoclar Odyssey Laser [1] addresses this problem in a unique and very effective manner. The fiber optic cord is contained in a cassette that unwinds the amount needed for work and then retracts it back for storage. It is a bit like a retractable measuring tape.

[1] http://www.getodysseylaser.com/

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Tags: Just for Fun

AADPA 50th Anniversary Annual Meeting

February 28th, 2006 · No Comments

This week I am traveling to the AADPA meeting in So. California. For over twenty years the AADPA (American Academy of Dental Practice Administration) has been one of the most powerful influences in both my professional and personal life. In 2006 the Academy will celebrate with a 50th Anniversary meeting.

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Tags: Administrative · Just for Fun

Canon A620

February 27th, 2006 · No Comments

The Canon G-6 is already being replaced by dental camera experts like PhotoMed [1]
The new model is the Canon A610/A620 [2] By the way this is the same camera Patterson is using in their new kit. Here is what the new kit contains:

Everything you need, except the computer. Camera, A610: 16MB, A620: 32MB memory card, high quality macro lens, lighting attachment, memory card reader (for fast image transfer to the computer), hard case and Canon image organization software. The camera is completely assembled, all proper menu choices are set, the memory card is formatted and sample images are taken to ensure everything is working properly. The camera is ready to go out of the case.

[1] http://www.photomed.net/
[2] http://www.photomed.net/a610.htm

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Tags: Cameras

Digital Impressions

February 27th, 2006 · No Comments

This is really new from Densys Ltd [1]. In fact it is so new it is still being tested. Developed in Israel Densys provides full mouth intraoral digital imaging. In other words a digital impression.
No more gagging, no more distortions, no more pouring plaster. Here is some information from the web site.

Within 90 seconds the dentist will precision map the patient’s mouth. Densys technology is ergonomic, inexpensive, easy to use, non harmful and non threatening, non invasive and totally pain free.Three-dimensional mapping of the mouth is required in almost every procedure in dentistry.Possible applications include:Automated production of crowns, bridges and all prostheses Orthodontic analysis and treatment Occlusal analysis (how the teeth of both jaws fit each other) Automation of dental insurance procedures Diagnosis and treatment planning Aesthetic planning & imaging Authorization acquisition and post-treatment payment for insurance purposes Prevention of unnecessary treatment and fraudulent claims Dental identification for pathological, military and police purposes Clinical support Implant planning and placement Maintenance of dental records

[1] http://www.densys3d.com/

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Tags: Just for Fun

Dentrix G2

February 27th, 2006 · No Comments

The Dentrix booth at the Chicago Midwinter had a private viewing area, where behind closed doors eager dentists could get a sneak peek at G2!!
G2 is the code name for the first complete make over of Dentrix. The look and feel have been updated. I am seeking out sample screen shots, so far no luck, however to get an idea of what it looks like….think blue.

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Tags: Administrative

Magna Vu

February 27th, 2006 · No Comments

I just got back from the Chicago Midwinter Meeting. As usual it was great with lots of new products and ideas. One that really interested me is the MagnaVu [1] described below. More later.

The new MagnaVu Scope (Patent Pending) from MVD produces precise, clear, highly magnified images that can eliminate the need for magnified loupes or microscopes- No more eyestrain! The MagnaVu allows you to view high resolution, highly magnified images on a flat LCD video display from a more natural, upright posture, similar to medical surgery. In fact, the versatile MagnaVu could actually replace most cameras and microscopes currently being used in the operatory.

[1] http://www.magnavu.com/

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Tags: Cameras · Hardware

RoboForm

February 20th, 2006 · No Comments

I found about about this great product at CES look here RoboForm: [1]
I downloaded the trial and now can’t imagine being without it. If you are an Internet geek like me you will love this product.
Roboform is the top-rated Password Manager and Web Form Filler that completely automates password entering and form filling.RoboForm was named PC Magazine Editor’s Choice, and CNET Download.com’s Software of the Year.

RoboForm:Memorizes your passwords and Logs You In automatically.Fills long registration and checkout forms with one click.Encrypts your passwords to achieve complete security. Generates random passwords that hackers cannot guess.Fights Phishing by filling passwords only on matching web sites.Defeats Keyloggers by not using keyboard to type passwords.Backs up your passwords, Copies them between computers.

[1] http://www.roboform.com/

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Tags: Security · Websites & Internet

Laptop Deal

February 20th, 2006 · No Comments

I received the following tip from Chris Gibbs at Florida Probe:
Here is a great deal on a small, but high powered laptop, ideal for Florida Probe use….  Final cost after all rebates is only $369.99 (plus tax and shipping)…comes with an all in one full sized 1410 HP printer!!
 
Walk in only deal at Office depot (not over Internet).  Upgrades also available at reasonable costs…
 

This deal expires Feb 25

Compaq Presario V2000 Notebook Computer with Intel® Celeron® M Processor 370
SAVE $380

 

369.99*
After Instant Savings & Mail-In Rebates
thru Feb 25

 • 1.5GHz Processor • 256MB memory• 40GB hard drive• Play DVDs & CDs via the DVD-ROM drive• Widescreen 14″ WXGA display• HP 1410 All-In-One printer with purchase of the V2000 or Upgrade to the 1610 for only $49 moreConfiguration Code 03017116
749.99 Regular Price – 150.00 Instant Savings 599.99* In Store Price – 50.00 PC Mail-In Rebate – 100.00 OD/Compaq v2000 Notebook Mail-In Rebate – 80.00 Printer Mail-In Rebate
Upgrade to 60GB Hard Drive + $35 054g 802.11b/g WLAN Networkability + $30 DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive + $50 512MB memory + $55

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Tags: Hardware

Chicago MidWinter

February 20th, 2006 · No Comments

This is the week of the BIG Chicago Midwinter dental meeting. Traditionally this is one of the most important meetings of the year, especially from a business point of view.
I will be presenting three programs, including a hands on camera session on Sunday morning. Thanks to ImageFx and PhotoMed for providing the set up and sponsorship. It is almost impossible to present hands on programs without the support of great sponsors.
I will also be looking for anything new and exciting in the area of dental high tech. I understand Dentrix has a major change coming that they will be showing there! I will report on all the cool stuff over the next few weeks.

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Tags: Just for Fun

Which Program?

February 19th, 2006 · No Comments

I have been asked a few times what is the difference between the hands on program and Technology on the Rocks?
The topics are essentially the same.
Hands on is two days of lecture and hands on activities. Hands on include taking and imaging a digital photo, enhancing an x-ray and making a power point program. Total of 16 hours of class. No other events (except lunch). The next scheduled event is March 31– April 1.
Technology on the Rocks is more of a CE Vacation. It is in Sedona an amazing vacation destination. It is three days, the mornings are for recreation, biking or whatever. The afternoons are lecture. Four hours a day to qualify per IRS standards. For a total of 12 hours, lecture only, no hands on.This is scheduled for June 22–24.
Both programs will give you great information and save time and money.
 

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Tags: Just for Fun