Dental Asia January/February 2024

www.dentalasia.net 

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024 

Under The Spotlight: 

The calling of an association 

Dental Profile: 

Into the Dentaverse 

Clinical Feature: 

Same-day dentistry with 

3D-printed crowns: Case report

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19 

25 

CONTENTS 

DENTAL PROFILE 

25 Turning customer feedback into product improvement 

27 How to future-proof a dental school 

30 Into the Dentaverse 

TRENDS 

14 Why is the adoption of new technology so slow? 

CLINICAL FEATURE 

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT 

16 The calling of an association 

19 Four countries and counting: Another step in Oracare Group’s ‘pan 

South East Asian’ dental network 

22 A common foundation for preventive and integrative healthcare 

33 The necessary reassessment of mask use in dentistry 

37 Efficient layering for high-quality dental implant aesthetics: 

Case study 

39 Same-day dentistry with 3D-printed crowns: Case report 

42 Best-practice in instrument reprocessing: The hygiene 

workflow in the practice of Dr Kayla Teh 

2 DENTAL ASIA JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

37 

39 

52 

USER REPORT 

45 All about the All-on-4 

SHOW REVIEW 

61 Joint 37th IADR-SEA annual scientific meeting and 2nd 

International Oral Health Symposium hosted in Singapore 

BEHIND THE SCENES 

47 Advocates of digital dentistry from the lab 

IN DEPTH WITH 

50 Why customise the dental scaffold for alveolar height 

augmentation? 

52 New capabilities and fully digital workflows with IBT Flex 

Resin 

54 exocad introduces DentalCAD 3.2 Elefsina software with over 

60 new features 

REGULARS 

4 Editor’s Note 

6 Dental Updates 

56 Product Highlights 

63 Events Calendar 

64 Advertisers’ Index 

DENTAL ASIA JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024 

3


Under The Spotlight: 

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024 

The calling of an association 

3D-printed crowns: Case report 

What’s new for 2024? 

EDITOR’S NOTE 

James Yau Assistant Editor 

Belated happy new year and season’s greetings to all readers of Dental 

Asia! 

facilities that can stand the test of time for multiple generations of 

students (p. 27). 

As this period into 2024 presents various opportunities, milestones, 

and challenges, you have probably heard or seen the phrase ‘new year, 

new me’ in conversations or readings about the new year. Despite the 

expression’s usage as a festive quip about resolutions for the new year, it 

calls to mind about the opportunities for changes that one encounters in 

the spirit of edification rather than for novelty’s sake. 

To ring in the new year in this first issue for 2024, we sought out the latest 

developments and advancements in dental education, for each dental 

professional to reflect upon their growth and learnings. 

For freshman at the Faculty of Dentistry in the National University of 

Singapore, a new interdisciplinary Common Curriculum that spans across 

healthcare disciplines including Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy has 

been introduced to develop future dental and healthcare professionals 

with the necessary skills for a new shift in healthcare towards integrative 

and preventive approaches (p. 22). Behind the fitting and shaping of 

such educational centres, we spoke with Jussi Ylisaari from Planmeca to 

learn about the considerations and challenges faced when educational 

institutions and manufacturers collaborate in designing and building 

We also explore novel ways in which dental education is being pushed 

to advance oral care standards. Dr Samintharaj Kumar of Nuffield Dental 

believes that by providing continuing education courses on specialised 

treatment plans such as the ‘All-on-4s’ implant method, all patients can 

benefit as these skills are rippled through the wider dental fraternity 

(p. 45). On the “virtual” end of the education spectrum, mixed reality 

company Dentaverse has confidence in evolving technologies of virtual 

reality, blockchain, and Web3.0, which has led them to build a mixed reality 

platform that aims to make dental education, networking, and events, 

more accessible and immersive than ever before (p. 30). 

Thank you for your continued support in 2023 and through the past 24 

years. We hope you enjoyed reading and found our coverage of all-thingsdentistry 

valuable in your respective roles and regions across Asia and the 

world. 

James Yau 

Cover credit: 

Planmeca 

Dental Profile: 


Clinical Feature: 


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5

DENTAL UPDATES 

Pearl appoints new COO and VP in 

expansion of leadership team 

Provider of dental AI solutions Pearl 

recently announced the appointment of 

Ben Plomion to chief operating officer 

(COO) and Dr Mike Barniv, DDS, to vicepresident 

of clinical affairs. In their roles, 

Plomion and Dr Barniv will help drive 

the company’s next phase of growth and 

innovation while further strengthening 

Pearl’s leadership team. 

As new COO, Plomion will oversee 

cross-departmental operations with 

a comprehensive focus on scaling the 

company’s growth. Prior to joining Pearl, 

Plomion served as the chief tokenisation 

officer at Dibbs, a tokenisation-asservice 

platform, and chief growth and 

marketing officer at GumGum, an AI 

advertising company. With over two 

decades of experience driving successful 

commercialisation efforts in the field 

of AI, Plomion will play a key role in the 

advancement of Pearl’s development and 

commercial operations. 

Dr Barniv joins Pearl as the company’s 

vice-president of clinical affairs after 

spending 20 years as a full-time, private 

practice dentist. Most recently, he 

served as vice-president at Delta Dental 

of Idaho, overseeing claims, customer 

service, utilisation management and AI 

implementation. As a former assistant 

professor at the University of the Pacific 

School of Dentistry in San Francisco, 

California, and the director of their AEGD 

residency clinic for over four years, Barniv 

will apply his extensive multidisciplinary 

dental experience towards advancing 

the company’s commercial, clinical, and 

institutional impact, according to Pearl. 

“Ben and Mike each bring uniquely relevant 

and valuable experience to Pearl’s growing 

leadership team, and we are privileged to 

welcome their support as we expand our 

capabilities and reach across the global 

dental market,” said founder and CEO 

of Pearl, Ophir Tanz. “Ben’s world-class 

Pearl’s CEO and founder Ophir Tanz speaking at 

the Global Symposium on Artificial Intelligence in 

Dentistry (Image: Pearl) 

growth and organisational leadership 

and Mike’s extraordinary clinical and 

commercial versatility prime Pearl to 

further expand its efforts to redefine the 

AI-powered future of dentistry.” 

Since receiving its second patent from 

the United States Patent and Trademark 

Office in June 2023 for its chairside AI 

disease dection software, Second Opinion, 

the company has been quick to expand 

its reach. It received clearance from the 

Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices 

Agency (TMMDA) as a Class IIa medical 

device, and partnered with Gamma Tech, 

a provider of radiographic services for 

the Australia and New Zealand dental 

community, to distribute Pearl’s AI 

software in the region. DA 

Kevin Boyle appointed 

chief technology officer 

for Dentsply Sirona 

Dentsply Sirona announced that Kevin 

Boyle has been appointed as senior 

vice-president, chief technology (CTO) 

officer and member of the management 

committee, effective 4 Dec 2023. In this 

new role, Boyle reports to the CEO, Simon 

Campion. 

“Kevin brings a results-oriented, innovative, 

and strategic leadership approach and 

has deep expertise collaborating crossfunctionally 

to maximise business success. 

His strong commitment to the continued 

advancement of healthcare by solving 

unmet clinical and process needs through 

deep customer intimacy, coupled with 

his focus on developing diverse teams, 

provides an excellent fit with our values,” 

said president and CEO of Dentsply 

Sirona, Simon Campion. “Innovation is and 

will continue to be a cornerstone of our 

strategy and Kevin’s appointment ensures 

our advances in that area are meaningful.” 

Boyle has over 20 years of leadership 

experience in research and development 

at MedTech companies. He joins Dentsply 

Sirona from Becton Dickinson and 

Company (BD), where he most recently 

served as senior vice-president of research 

and development, Interventional Segment. 

He was previously vice-president of 

(Image: 

Dentsply 

Sirona) 

research and development, Peripheral 

Intervention, at BD and worked at 

Medtronic in various R&D roles. 

Boyle also holds a Master’s Degree in 

engineering in biomedical engineering from 

Texas A&M as well as a Master’s Degree in 

management information systems from the 

Michael Smurfit Business School, UCD, in 

Ireland. 

“I am very proud to join Dentsply Sirona 

with its long history of groundbreaking 

innovation in all areas of dentistry and 

continence care,” said Boyle, senior 

vice-president, CTO of Dentsply Sirona. 

“My goal is to drive major advancements 

to our innovation strategy, increasing 

Dentsply Sirona’s competitive advantage 

and bringing value to our customers and 

their patients. I am excited to support the 

company’s mission to transform dentistry 

and continence care through innovation and 

improve people’s lives.” DA 



New Government Dental College and 

Hospital opens in Chennai, India 

Chief minister of Tamil Nadu M K Stalin 

inaugurated the new Government Dental 

College and Hospital in the Pudukkottai 

district of the city of Chennai over a video 

conference on 15 Nov 2023. 

Construction of the site began on 21 Oct 

2021 and was expected to be completed 

by 15 Jul 2023, prior to the inauguration. 

According to the Times of India, the 

facility cost Rs67.83m (US$8.15m) and the 

government provided equipment worth 

Rs51m (US$0.61m). 

The campus of the Government 

Dental College and Hospital includes 

administrative buildings, outpatient 

quarters for students and staff, buildings 

for academic activities and dining blocks. 

In addition, the new facility will have 

a faculty of six professors, 11 associate 

professors, 30 assistant professors and 102 

non-teaching staff according to DT Next. 

The college admitted 50 BDS students in 

August 2023 after it was accredited by the 

Dental Council of India earlier in May. 

The facility is said to be the third state-run dental 

college hospital in the state of Tamil Nadu (Image: 

The Hindu) 

Chief minister Stalin will further 

inaugurate 17 primary health centres and 

subcentres while the state government 

will also inaugurate 152 wellness centres 

by December 2023, 40 of which will be in 

Chennai. The current estimated population 

of Chennai city is 6,407,000 with its 

metropolitan population estimated at 

11,933,000. DA 

Align Technology opens 2024 Annual Research Award 

Programme with US$300,000 in awards 

Align Technology recently announced 

the opening of its 2024 Annual Research 

Award Programme which aims to support 

clinical and scientific dental research in 

universities across the globe. 

Up to US$300,000 will be awarded to 

university staff members for scientific 

and technological research initiatives 

to advance patient care in the fields 

of orthodontics and dentistry. Align 

Technology’s Research Award Programme 

has funded approximately $3m in research 

since the its inception in 2010. 

“This programme is an exciting opportunity 

for university researchers globally to 

expand scientific and clinical learnings to 

elevate patient care. We look forward to 

the topics and research studies that may 

ultimately improve treatment outcomes 

and the quality of life for more patients 

worldwide,” said Align senior vice-president 

of global clinical, Dr Mitra Derakhshan. 

Awards available for dental research at 

universities are available in the three 

regions: the Americas (US, Canada, Mexico, 

Central and South America) with four 

one-year awards of up to $25,000 each, the 

EMEA region with four one-year awards of 

up to $25,000 each, and the APAC region 

with four one-year awards of up to $25,000 

each. 

“Once again, we anticipate receiving 

a large number of applications to this 

research programme. The topics submitted 

throughout the past years have been 

diverse and often on the forefront of 

(Image: Ani Kolleshi/ Unsplash) 

the dental field. Align Technology is 

proud to fund this research program 

with the purpose of improving dental 

care throughout the world,” said Align 

vice-president, product innovation and 

technical fellow, John Morton. 

Eligible applicants for dental research 

awards include full-time and part-time 

faculty involved in dental or scientific 

research at universities where Invisalign 

treatment or the iTero scanner is available. 

Research proposals and completed 

applications must be received by 5pm 

Pacific Time on 8 Mar 2024, and award 

recipients will be notified by 3 Jun 2024. 

All applications are reviewed by an 

independent academic committee that 

forwards its recommendations to Align for 

final selection. Consideration will be given 

to first-time applications from a university 

programme. 

Award recipients for the 2023 programme 

includes the University of Washington for 

the Americas, UniCamillus, International 

Medical University for EMEA, and Sichuan 

University for APAC. DA 


7


SmileDirectClub shuts down months 

after filing for bankruptcy, leaving 

many in the lurch 

Less than three months after filing for 

bankruptcy in September 2023, remote 

invisible aligners treatment company 

SmileDirectClub has confirmed that it 

would shut down its global operations 

in a FAQ page published on its website 

on 8 Dec 2023. 

A statement published read: 

“SmileDirectClub has made the incredibly 

difficult decision to wind down its global 

operations, effective immediately. For new 

customers interested in SmileDirectClub 

services, thank you for your interest, but 

aligner treatment is no longer available 

through our telehealth platform. For 

existing customers, we apologise for the 

inconvenience, but customer care support 

is no longer available. Thank you for your 

support and letting us improve over two 

million smiles and lives.” 

Accompanying the statement were a series 

of FAQ for customers concerning payments 

and order fulfilment. All orders placed for 

SmileDirectClub aligners but have not yet 

been received have been cancelled without 

further details. SmilePay customers were 

expected to continue making monthly 

payments where service provider HPD's 

contact information was referred. More 

information is expected to be released once 

the bankruptcy process determines next 

steps and additional measures customers 

can take. 

The American Association of Orthodontists 

(AAO) offered guidance to patients impacted 

by the recent closure of SmileDirectClub 

through a statement issued on 14 Dec 2023. 

"The best thing SmileDirectClub patients 

can do at this point is to book an inperson 

exam with a licensed orthodontist 

in their area,” said Myron Guymon, 

DDS, MS, president of the AAO. "Most 

SmileDirectClub patients have not had an 

x-ray or in-person exam, which are critical 

to ensuring an accurate diagnosis and safe 

and effective treatment plan." 

The AAO issued a series of steps for 

affected parties. For patients with 

complaints, including those who may 

be unable to contact the dentist that 

was supervising their SmileDirectClub 

treatment, AAO recommends reaching out 

to state dental boards that have individual 

complaint processes for dental treatments. 

If finances are a concern, the AAO urged 

to ask about complimentary consultations 

offered by many AAO orthodontists when 

booking an appointment with a local 

licensed orthodontist. 

The AAO also advised caution of other 

mail-order orthodontic companies 

feeding on SmileDirectClub's failure, and 

emphasised the importance of an in-person 

examination and x-rays before starting 

any orthodontics with a provider to avoid 

irreparable harm. 

"We are committed to helping 

SmileDirectClub patients navigate through 

this challenging situation. Our members 

are available to provide the care and 

support patients need to achieve a healthy 

and confident smile,” added Dr Guymon. 

As reported by local media outlet 

NewsChannel 5, former employees like 

Melissa Malingowski who worked at 

SmileDirectClub for nearly six years were 

left in a lurch with the sudden closure. 

"About 12:30pm, they pulled us all to the 

floor and were like: 'Hey, we are closing 

operations like, immediately. Everybody go 

home. I was balling. I lost it. We also found 

out later that they had originally wanted 

us to continue working through the end of 

the day. People just lost their livelihoods, 

and you want us to continue making a 

product that is not going to go anywhere?" 

Malingowski said. 

(Image: SmileDirectClub) 

"Honestly, they made it sound like we were 

going to be fine. We were restructuring 

everything. We would be good. We were 

literally told business as usual. And with the 

sudden closure, some of us have 401(k)s, 

and we do not have access to them. For me, 

they said effective immediately — this is 

your last paid day, and we were supposed 

to get paid at the end of December, and 

I cannot pay my rent in two weeks,” 

Malingowski added. 

SmileDirectClub was co-founded in 2014 

by Jordan Katzman and Alex Fenkell, based 

in Nashville, Tennessee, US. It reportedly 

served over two million people since its 

by selling clear dental aligners directly to 

consumers as a faster and more affordable 

alternative to braces. 

The company was valued at about US$8.9bn 

after its stock began trading publicly in 

2019 but its value fell over time as the 

company proved to be unprofitable, losing 

$86.4m in 2022. 

SmileDirectClub was also involved in 

lawsuit over unfair practices after a 2020 

report from The New York Times revealed 

that the company tied confidentially 

agreements to refunds. The District of 

Columbia attorney general’s office sued the 

company in 2022 where they were required 

to release more than 17,000 customers 

from the agreements and pay $500,000 to 

the district. 

SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 11 

bankruptcy protection at the end of 

September with the company reporting 

nearly $900m in debt at the time. DA 



Roland DGA and Straumann USA 

partner to offer restorative solutions 

Roland DGA’s DGSHAPE Americas Dental 

Business Group and Straumann USA have 

announced a partnership to combine 

their collective talents and expertise to 

accelerate the awareness and acceptance 

of high-quality restorative solutions in the 

dental market. 

This new collaboration is said to create 

an opportunity to provide world-class, 

full-service restorative solutions featuring 

Straumann’s implant solutions and 

DGSHAPE’s DWX Dental Milling Solutions. 

The partnership also enables Straumann 

USA to distribute Roland DGA’s DGSHAPE 

DWX mills throughout the US and Canada. 

Based on shared values, goals, and desired 

outcomes, the new working relationship 

between these two companies is expected 

to benefit both Roland DGA and Straumann 

USA, boosting revenue and fueling 

innovation for the respective businesses. 

“The Roland DGA and Straumann alliance 

will enhance the workflow and quality 

of restorative and implant solutions 

for dental professionals. We will work 

together to satisfy the growing demand for 

technological innovation and improve the 

overall clinician/patient experience,” said 

Roland DGA’s dental marketing manager, 

Lisa Aquirre. 

Both businesses are also focused on 

(Image: Roland 

and Straumann) 

providing products that effectively address 

the needs and wants of labs and clinicians to 

better the oral health of patients worldwide. 

The two companies are entering this 

partnership as new digital advancements 

continue to transform the dental industry. 

According to a recent ResearchAndMarkets 

report, restorative dentistry is undergoing 

a revolution due to CAD/CAM technologies. 

Digital impressions, design, and the 

manufacturing of restorations such as 

crowns, bridges, and dentures are accurate 

and time-and-cost-effective because of 

intraoral scanners, 3D imaging, and CAD/ 

CAM technologies. With greater accuracy, 

quicker turnaround times, and superior 

patient experience, this trend is predicted 

to continue expanding. 

“Our partnership combines the branding 

leverage and the reputations of both 

companies to expand market awareness, 

reach, and adoption for the advancement 

of the dental community. This initiative 

will consist of a product-based and 

communications-based effort to grow 

digital dental workflows and processes,” 

added Aguirre. DA 

Qatar Investment Authority invests 

US$50m in India’s Clove Dental 

Sovereign wealth fund Qatar Investment 

Authority (QIA) has made an equity 

investment of US$50m (Rs416crore) 

in Global Dental Services, the parent 

company of Clove Dental, India’s largest 

tech-enabled-dental-platform. The group 

operates more than 400 company-owned 

and company-operated dental clinics under 

the ‘Clove Dental’ banner. 

The equity injection from QIA is said to 

unlock significant growth opportunities for 

the group as it seeks to expand across India, 

ensuring that more Indians have access to 

reliable, high-quality, and affordable dental 

care. 

“This investment from QIA will enable our 

group to pursue its ambitious growth plans 

in both existing and new tier I & II cities 

across India, ensuring that more Indians 

have access to reliable, high-quality, and 

affordable dental care,” said founder and 

CEO of Global Dental, Amarinder Singh. 

Prior to QIA, Clove Dental raised around 

$66m (Rs549crore) in December 2022 in 

a round led by Investcorp, which brings 

the total investment raised by the group 

to $116m (Rs963crore). The funds will 

reportedly be used to rapidly grow the 

Clove Dental clinical network and develop 

a therapeutic oral care products range, 

reported the Times of India. 

This investment in Clove Dental comes as 

QIA looks to further diversify its portfolio 

in India’s fast-growing economy and comes 

on the back of recent investments in India 

within the retail and real estate sectors, and 

in green energy investments. 

“QIA is committed to supporting innovative 

companies with high-growth potential and 

(Image: Clove Dental) 

sees great potential in India’s fast-growing 

healthcare and retail markets. We have 

been impressed by Clove’s rapid expansion 

across India, commitment to quality, and 

innovative approach to dental care and look 

forward to welcoming them to our diverse 

global healthcare portfolio,” said Sheikh 

Faisal Thani Al-Thani, chief investment 

officer, Africa & APAC at QIA. 

“From inception, we have been, and are, 

very selective in whom we bring on as 

partners and shareholders. QIA is an 

outstanding example of a shareholder 

who is aligned with the long-term vision 

of the group. At Global Dental we have 

made significant investments in people, 

technology, equipment, and infrastructure,” 

said chairman of Global Dental, Louis 

Shakinovsky. DA 



Diego Gabathuler named new CEO of Geistlich 

Geistlich Pharma AG has announced the 

appointment of Diego Gabathuler as its 

new CEO, effective 1 Dec 2023. He succeeds 

Ralf Halbach, who departed the company in 

August 2023. 

(Image: Geistlich 

Pharma AG) 

Gabathuler is a 49-year-old Swiss National 

who brings a broad range of experience 

from various management positions as 

well as extensive knowledge in business 

development and strategic marketing. 

Most recently, Gabathuler was CEO of the 

dental company Ivoclar. He has expertise in 

the MedTech sector, excellent leadership 

qualities, and a proven strategic acumen. 

Sharing his excitement online, Gabathuler 

wrote on his Linkedin post of his belief 

in the culture and people comprising a 

company. 

“I look forward to meeting our teams 

around the world, our highly valued 

customers and business partners, as well 

as the people at the three foundations 

and within our strong global scientific 

network,” he wrote. “I am deeply convinced, 

that the people and the company culture 

is the most important success factor. 

People create innovation, people overcome 

hurdles and people build relationships and 

businesses.” 

Geistlich specialises in the regeneration of 

bone, cartilage and tissue. The company 

has more than 800 employees worldwide 

in the field of regenerative medicine, 13 

affiliates and 60 distribution partners, 

where its medical devices and medicinal 

products reaches around 90 markets 

worldwide. Under its dental portfolio, it 

offers solutions covering dental implants, 

periodontitis, and biomaterials. 

“The Geistlich strategic plan includes 

further investment in new products, 

solutions, and technologies in order to 

apply regenerative medicine in helping 

even more people around the world. We 

are convinced that Gabathuler’s expertise 

will support us significantly in this mission,” 

said chairman of the board of directors, 

Andreas Geistlich. DA 

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11


Senator Bong Go advocates for advancement of the 

dental profession at the Manila Dental Chapter 4th 

Scientific Seminar 

The Manila Dental Chapter 4th Scientific 

Seminar was held at the Hotel Benilde in 

Manila City, the Philippines, on 12 Nov 2023 

under the theme ‘Synergizing Biofunctional 

Dentistry and Effective Communication’. 

Led by Dr Michelle Lamug, the event 

brought together dental professionals, 

practitioners, and enthusiasts, who listened 

to featured speakers and experts speak on 

the latest advancements in biofunctional 

dentistry and the important role of 

effective communication in promoting 

dental health. In attendance was senator 

Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of 

the Senate Committee on Health and 

Demography, where he advocated for the 

advancement of the dental profession. 

“I am committed to working with you and 

the entire dental community to ensure 

that our healthcare policies are responsive 

to your needs and that we provide the 

necessary support to help you excel in your 

field. I believe that through collaboration 

and open dialogue, we can achieve the best 

outcomes for the health of our people. 

We need initiatives that will shape our 

healthcare landscapes for the betterment 

of all Filipinos,” said Go. 

Go emphasised the need for a holistic 

approach to healthcare that includes 

oral health as an integral component. 

He highlighted the role of biofunctional 

dentistry not only in treating dental issues 

but also in promoting overall wellbeing. 

Go also stressed the importance of 

raising awareness about maintaining good 

health as he encouraged the public to 

take advantage of the medical assistance 

programmes offered in Malasakit Centers. 

Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health 

and Demography, senator Christopher “Bong” Go 

(Image: Senate of the Philippines) 

Furthermore, Go continued to push for 

the construction of more Super Health 

Centers nationwide. Such centres will offer 

database management, dental, outpatient, 

birthing, isolation, diagnostic, pharmacy, 

and an ambulatory surgical unit. Other 

services that will be available include 

eye, ear, nose, and throat care, oncology 

centres, physical therapy and rehabilitation 

centres, and telemedicine. DA 

Young Innovations acquires Salvin Dental Specialties 

(Image: Young Innovations and Salvin) 

Global supplier of dental products Young 

Innovations announced the acquisition of 

Salvin Dental Specialties (Salvin). Based 

in Charlotte, North Carolina, US, Salvin is 

a supplier of regenerative biomaterials, 

surgical instrumentation, supplies and 

equipment specifically for implant 

dentistry. 

“Salvin takes great pride in delivering an 

exceptional customer experience and 

clinical support to implant practices, with a 

robust product line specifically designed by 

the Salvin team to meet the unique needs 

of this specialty segment,” said Dave Sproat, 

CEO of Young Innovations. “We are excited 

to support the ongoing growth of Salvin’s 

business, employees, customers, vendors 

and brand as a part of our broader global 

portfolio.” 

Bob Salvin, founder and CEO of Salvin, will 

serve as an adviser to Young Innovations 

and continue to provide counsel and 

support for the Salvin team and its 

customers. William Simmons, CEO, and 

Greg Slayton, president, will continue to 

provide daily leadership and management 

for the business from Charlotte. There 

are no changes to ordering and service 

procedures for customers or vendors. 

“I am exceptionally proud of the company 

we have built for over 40 years with 

our valued employees, customers, and 

partners,” said Bob Salvin. “We have 

achieved our goal of creating a business 

focused on providing everything for the 

implant practice but the implants. Thanks 

to our strong team, culture, and focus, we 

are well positioned for continued success. 

We are excited to be partnered with Young 

in this new chapter of growth for Salvin.” 

“Our acquisition of Salvin reflects our 

continued commitment to invest in the 

oral surgery market. The combination 

of Salvin and Young now makes us the 

largest dental implant-agnostic supplier 

in the industry,” added Steve Clareen, 

vice-president/general manager at Young 

Innovations. “The leadership team at Salvin 

is exceptional. They have built a fantastic 

business with a respected portfolio. We 

look forward to working together to drive 

additional value to Salvin’s customers and 

the patients they serve.” DA 



Myanmar Dental Health 

Science Conference 2023 

in Nay Pyi Taw 

The Myanmar Dental Health Science Conference 2023 organised 

by the Ministry of Health took place from 3-4 Nov 2023 at the 

Myanmar International Convention Centre-II (MICC-II) in the 

country’s capital city of Nay Pyi Taw, under the theme ‘Quality 

Dental Care for Community’. 

Dental experts from Thailand, Japan, the Republic of Korea and 

Malaysia participated in the two-day conference where local 

specialists delivered quality treatment systems and reading 

sessions of 32 posters and 30 papers were held. In attendance 

were member of the State Administration Council (SAC) Dr Ba 

Shwe, union minister for health Prof Dr Thet Khaing Win, and 

chairman of the Nay Pyi Taw Council. 

Dr Thet Khaing Win then attended the signing ceremony for 

the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the exchange of 

medical knowledge on surgical treatment of congenital cleft lip 

and palate patients between the Department of Medical Services 

and the Korea University Medicine. 

PERFECTION IN 

BONE SURGERY 

→ YOUR SURGICAL 

APPROACH WILL CHANGE - 

THE PIEZOSURGERY® touch 

→ best cutting efficiency 

→ optimal intraoperative control 

→ perfect ergonomics 

→ made in Italy 

On day two of the Myanmar Dental Health Science Conference, 

deputy minister for health Prof Dr Aye Tun attended the signing 

ceremony to extend an MoU between Myanmar and the Faculty 

of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, Thailand to exchange 

medical knowledge, and academic methods and to strengthen 

collaboration for research on dental health. 

In addition, professors from the Korean University of Medicine 

and the Japan Heart Foundation shared knowledge on dental 

implant treatments and cleft lip and palate surgeries respectively. 

This was followed by a discussion of face, jaw and oral surgeries 

contributed by a surgeon of the International Medical University, 

Malaysia. DA 

Over 650 experts were involved in the discussions on dental health 

from 3-4 Nov (Image: The Global New Light of Myanmar) 

→ www.mectron.com 


13

TRENDS 

Why is the adoption of new 

technology so slow? 

By Dr Alan Kwong Hing, DDS, MSc, chairman, PBM Group and A&H Academy 

As we enter the new year, some questions dental professionals tend to ask are: What are the 

latest technologies? Which of these should we incorporate into our medical/dental practices? 

Should we adopt new innovations? How will this impact the delivery of patient care and overall 

performances of our offices? 

Although there has been rapid advancement of technology, there is hesitancy, and adoption is 

relatively slow in medicine and dentistry compared to other sectors. It is frequently stated that 

it takes an average of 17 years of research to provide evidence of the efficacy of a new device 

or medications to reach mainstream clinical practice usage. 1-5 In reality, how "new" is the new 

technology we are considering using?

TRENDS 

practice is between 17-23 years. 5 While the 

development of new medicines and medical/ 

dental innovations holds immense potential, 

their integration into mainstream practice 

is a complex and time-consuming process. 

Rigorous research and testing, regulatory 

hurdles, economic considerations, education, 

and peer acceptance collectively contribute to 

the delay. 

RIGOROUS RESEARCH AND TESTING 

Before a new medicine or medical/dental 

device can enter the market, it must undergo 

extensive preclinical research, clinical trials, 

and regulatory approval processes. These are 

to verify safety and efficacy, ensuring the new 

treatment meets stringent standards. Rigorous 

testing is essential to protect patient welfare, 

which can result in a substantial amount of 

time required to complete these steps. 

REGULATORY HURDLES 

Regulatory bodies play a crucial role in 

assessing the safety and efficacy of new 

medicines or medical/dental devices. 

Obtaining regulatory approval involves 

navigating complex procedures and 

regulations and paperwork, which can 

consume a significant amount of time and 

resources. Stringent evaluations, certifications, 

and compliance with various standards all 

contribute to the lengthy process of gaining 

regulatory clearance. 

ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS 

Cost/benefit is a significant factor in the 

adoption of new medicines or medical/ 

dental devices especially in a small office. 

Healthcare systems and providers need to 

evaluate the economic impact of integrating 

new treatments, considering factors 

such as affordability, reimbursement and 

cost-effectiveness compared to existing 

alternatives. 

time-consuming process before the clinician 

has the necessary expertise and confidence 

to incorporate these innovations safely and 

effectively into patient care. 

Who or what institution will provide the training 

without being seen as self-serving and credible 

must be determined by the developer of the 

technology or innovation. This vetting process 

can add considerable time to the overall 

process. 

PEER ACCEPTANCE AND ADOPTION 

Professionals rely highly on scientific literature, 

guidelines, and recommendations from 

professional associations before embracing 

new treatments or medical/dental devices. 

Peer acceptance and consensus play a vital 

role in driving the adoption of novel therapies. 

It takes time for research findings to be 

critically reviewed, then disseminated and 

widely accepted within the medical/dental 

community. 

Building evidence and generating consensus 

are essential for increasing the likelihood 

of adoption by healthcare practitioners. 

Identifying and working with key opinion 

leaders who can legitimise use of the 

innovation is a difficult process and takes time. 

CONCLUSION 

The estimated time lag from the development 

of an innovation to its everyday use in 

By understanding these factors, stakeholders 

can work together to streamline the adoption 

process, ensuring that safe and effective 

innovations reach patients in a timely manner. 

The key components in this process are 

identifying which time-lags are beneficial and 

which are unnecessary and implementing 

changes to remove timelines for adoption. 

A quicker translation from scientific 

discoveries to benefitting patients should be a 

priority to improve patient care and decrease 

unnecessary pain and suffering. By making 

more practitioners aware of the time lag, I hope 

they can advocate for the changes necessary 

for a faster adoption and decreasing the 17-23- 

year adoption timeline. DA 

REFERENCES 

1. Westfall JM, Mold J, Fagnan L. Practice-Based 

Research—“Blue Highways” on the NIH Roadmap. 

JAMA. 2007;297(4):403–406. 

2. Trochim WMK. Translation won't happen 

without dissemination and implementation: Some 

measurement and evaluation issues. Proceedings 

of the 3rd Annual NIH Conference on the Science 

of Dissemination and Implementation, Bethesda, 

MD, Accessed March 16, 2010. 

3. Green LW, Ottoson JM, García C, Hiatt RA. 

Diffusion theory and knowledge dissemination, 

utilization, and integration in public health. Annu 

Rev Public Health. 2009;30:151-74. 

4. Balas EA, Boren SA. Managing Clinical 

Knowledge for Health Care Improvement. Yearb 

Med Inform. 2000;(1):65-70. 

5. Morris ZS, Wooding S, Grant J. The answer is 17 

years, what is the question: understanding time 

lags in translational research. J R Soc Med. 2011 

Dec;104(12):510-20. 

EDUCATION AND TRAINING 

The successful integration of new treatments 

or techniques often requires healthcare 

professionals to be trained and educated in 

their proper usage. Informing and training 

medical/dental personnel on specific 

protocols, administration techniques, and 

potential side effects associated with 

new medicines or the devices can be a 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Dr Alan Kwong Hing DDS, MSc graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery 

degree (with distinction) from the University of Western Ontario. He 

received the University Gold Medal and completed a concurrent Master’s 

Degree in Pathology with a focus on Bone Biology. He has earned multiple 

degrees and received numerous awards including the IADR predoctoral Hatton award. 


15

The calling of 

an association 

Empowering community responsibility, 

being seen by the public, and informing 

oral health strategies: These ideas only 

scratch the surface of how Dr Mas Suryalis 

hopes to raise the profile of her association 

and improve oral health outcomes for 

all Malaysians. Dental Asia speaks with 

the president of the Malaysian Dental 

Association (MDA) on the changes she is 

driving both in and outside the MDA. 

By James Yau 

Reflecting on the milestones and 

influential moments in her career, Dr 

Suryalis described herself as “driven”. 

“I like to challenge myself and take on 

responsibilities that other people may 

be afraid of. Whenever I am given a 

task, I will challenge myself to do it in 

the best way that I can,” she said. 

However, she was quick to point out 

that it is not always smooth sailing. 

“I like to try many things and that is 

why I do a lot of things. But it does not 

mean that I excel in everything I do. I 

learn from my mistakes and failures, 

and I believe these experiences shape 

me into the person that I am today,” 

she added. 

This tenacious mindset proves to 

be a familiar theme in her career. 

After graduating with a BDS from the 

University of Malaya, Malaysia, in 2006, 

Dr Suryalis worked under the Ministry 

of Health before joining academia 

and subsequently undertaking her 

specialist training in special care 

dentistry in Australia. She underwent 

training in various hospitals and 

healthcare institutions and graduated 

with Doctor of Clinical Dentistry and 

Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the 

University of Melbourne in 2016. 

In her latest appointment as MDA 

president since June 2023, Dr Suryalis 

was once again banking on the lessons 

and character developed and gleaned 

throughout her career to help better 

oral health outcomes in Malaysia and 

raise the profile of the MDA. 

The new initiatives she drove to 

implement included goals such 

as increasing membership rates, 

encouraging community programmes, 

promoting oral health equity, and 

informing policies with government 

stakeholders. 

“It is not an easy process because you 

are exposed to different challenges. 

You have to work with so many 

different people and are in situations 

where you have to work fast and 

troubleshoot. All these are learning 

experiences and has helped me to 

become a good person and leader,” 

she said. 

MDA FRATERNITY 

A major facet of Dr Suryalis’s 

vision for the MDA centres around 

increasing its public visibility. 

“People are not aware of our roles 

because we shy away from the 

media. We have done a lot for the 

dental fraternity, but our publicity 

and promotion are still not as strong,” 

she said. 

Recognising the importance of public 

relations, a social media and public 

health committee were set up to 

develop a relationship with the public 

and leverage on MDA’s experts to 

weigh in on current affairs. 

“If there are any controversial issues 

or new policies, we would like to be 



at the forefront to provide our opinion 

and voice our concerns. We are still 

establishing that because we need to 

look for suitable people to be in that 

committee,” she added. 

The increased media presence is also 

targeted at other dental professionals 

in Malaysia to raise awareness of 

the function of MDA itself. With over 

4,000 registered members of the 

13,000 dentist population, the MDA 

is the largest dental association in 

Malaysia. Still, Dr Suryalis hopes 

to see more dentists register with 

MDA. Working with various specialist 

associations to partner with MDA as 

affiliates, Dr Suryalis sees the benefits 

of collaboration to amplify the voice of 

the dentist in the society. 

“We would like to be the umbrella body 

to all the other dental associations, 

including the specialist. If there are any 

causes or issues to raise, we have a 

stronger voice,” said Dr Suryalis. 

Furthermore, the MDA’s increased 

media presence is not envisioned as 

a one-way dialogue as Dr Suryalis 

encourages members of the public 

to voice their opinions and concerns 

through the provided channels such 

as the MDA’s direct email for general 

inquiries, or the MDA patient complaint 

bureau to seek assistance or advice 

pertaining to patient care. 

"With technology and social media, 

people can say anything on the 

internet. We would like to urge 

members of the dental fraternity to 

use the right channels so their voices 

are heard and problems solved,” 

Dr Suryalis added. 

One pressing issue Dr Suryalis has 

witnessed among dental professionals 

and proffered support is on mental 

health. She explained that with 

the competition in the market and 

effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, 

the profession can be very stressful 

causing a high prevalence of mental 

health issues. 

“We want our members to know that 

if they have any problems with mental 

health, we are here to help. If there 

is anything that the association can 

help, for example in doing activities or 

programmes, come and reach out to 

us. Some of members have a social 

media channel to offer support for 

those struggling with mental health 

issues,” she said. 

MDA IN MALAYSIA 

Looking outwards to the MDA’s 

involvement in the wider society, 

Dr Suryalis hopes to develop closer 

partnerships with its government 

partners as well as the FDI World 

Dental Federation (FDI). 

Dr Suryalis shared that MDA has been 

very active in providing its reviews, 

ideas and suggestions at international 

conferences and exhibitions. During 

the FDI convention in Sydney during 

September 2023, the MDA was involved 

with the reviewing of policy statements. 

"This year we discussed about many 

issues including sugar consumption, 

alcohol intake, antenatal programmes, 

and smoking cessation. We gave our 

opinions which were considered in the 

improvement of the policy statements,” 

she said. The hope of being an active 

member in such international oral 

health organisations is to disseminate 

these policy statements among MDA 

members for dental practitioners in 

Malaysia to adopt. 

This involvement of policy making 

on the international stage no doubt 

provided useful experience in the 

MDA's role to inform oral health policies 

within the country. 

Under the National Oral Health 

Strategic Plan 2022-2030 which 

outlined the country’s oral healthcare 

Representatives of the MDA meeting with the principal director of Oral Health 

in Malaysia to discuss collaborative opportunities 

The MDA delegates at FDI Sydney made a concerted effort to be 

involved in reviewing policy statements 


17


delivery strategies and activities, MDA 

acts as an agency tasked with various 

actions contained within nine strategic 

thrusts of blueprint. Working in tandem 

with other agencies such as the 

Ministry of Health, Ministry of Defence, 

and the Ministry of Higher Education, 

this ranges from initiatives concerning 

oral cancer screening, smoking 

cessation counselling, developing 

periodontal care protocols, and 

monitoring the use of dental amalgam. 

The MDA is currently gathering data 

on involvement among its members of 

participation in the initiatives outlined 

in the strategic plan. 

“We get feedback from our members 

so we can measure whether or not 

whatever initiatives that the policy 

makers and stakeholders are doing 

is actually impactful, and how we 

can strategise and collaborate for an 

improved outcome,” Dr Suryalis said. 

Another public initiative which Dr 

Suryalis is eager to promote is an 

increased role of community service 

among MDA members. Of the 20 CPD 

points required by dentists to renew 

their annual practicing certificates, up 

to five points can be earned through 

participation in outreach programmes 

or community service activities, 

depending on the level of involvement. 

The scope of community service 

activities varies from providing oral 

health checkups to giving educational 

talks and is not limited to dental care 

alone. It encompasses a wider set of 

community service activities depending 

on the organisation or association 

conducting the programme. By 

promoting and organising such 

progammes, Dr Suryalis hoped 

for dentists to see the benefits of 

community service activities for their 

professional development. 

“We would like to have more people 

empowered and engaged in these 

community service activities. We have 

collaborated with a few universities 

locally who have done community 

service projects across the country. We 

do not just keep it within just MDA, but 

we want to empower as many people 

as we can within the dental fraternity, 

including those in the private sectors 

and in the higher institutions,” she said. 

Dr Suryalis added that since promoting 

these community programmes, 

organisations have been becoming 

more active within their local 

communities. Moreover, the Ministry of 

Health was supportive of this mindset 

as it aligned the overall objective of 

improving oral health in the nation. 

The MDA also recently introduced the 

MDA Community Service Grant worth 

for all Malaysian Dental Schools 

and affiliated dental associations 

to conduct community service 

activities in conjunction with the 

World Oral Health Day. 

checkups and treatments are provided 

in rural areas for the indigenous 

community. 

“There are a lot of initiatives and 

programmes by the Ministry of Health, 

and they would like MDA to also be on 

board to help achieve the various goals 

and ultimately achieve the mission 

and vision of various policies and 

programmes,” she said. 

Dr Suryalis highlighted that oral 

health prevention and management 

strategies for different demographics 

of the population within Malaysia 

required different approaches given the 

differences in cultural practices and 

traditions. 

For example, studies have reported high 

daily sugar intake among the Malays, 

notably from Kelantan state, which 

may increase the risk of caries. Other 

studies reported betel/tobacco quid 

chewing habit in the Indian community, 

especially those living in the estates, 

which may predispose them to higher 

risk of oral cancer. 

For the wider Malaysian public, Dr 

Suryalis observed a growing demand 

and awareness of aesthetics and digital 

dentistry as beauty standards and 

knowledge of dentistry rises. While the 

knowledge and cost barriers to these 

trends remain, working with industry 

partners and training programmes 

would only spur demand further. 

With an acute grasp of the needs of the 

community and a course charted for 

the MDA, Dr Suryalis called on all dental 

professionals to cater for Malaysians 

from all walks of life. 

A community service activity programme 

with a local university designed to foster a 

sense of community responsibility within 

the dental fraternity 

Under the second strategic thrust 

which sought to increase accessibility, 

affordability, and equitability of oral 

healthcare services especially in 

under-served and rural areas plan, the 

MDA Eastern Zone presiding in the 

Borneo regions of Sabah and Sarawak 

has been actively participating in 

community service activities where 

“Whether you are in private or public 

practice, you have the responsibility 

to provide equitable access to quality 

healthcare service for everyone. 

Dental practitioners must be ready 

with essential knowledge and skills to 

provide services, whether it is for the 

higher socioeconomic patients or those 

who are at disadvantage.” DA 


Four countries and 

counting: Another 

step in Oracare 

Group's 'pan South 

East Asian' dental 

network 

Oracare Group's latest partership with Uy Dental 

Clinic Group (UDC) represents not only a tried-andtested 

business strategy, but also a step forward in 

realising regional co-operation and entrepreneurship 

to advance dental care in South East Asia. Dental Asia 

speaks with co-founders of Oracare Group, Leon Luai 

and Andy Cropp, on this collective vision. By James Yau 

First Singapore, then Indonesia, Thailand, and 

most recently — the Philippines. 

Under its ambit, the Oracare Group (Oracare) 

manages dental clinics across four countries 

in South East Asia with Family Dental Centre 

and Expat Dental in Singapore, Tawa Dental 

in Indonesia, MOS Dental in Thailand, and 

UDC in the Philippines, collectively boasting 

a network of 62 dental clinics, 652 staff 

members, and over 316,000 annual patients 

visits. Oracare's business model is centred on 

providing professional management expertise 

to complement the dental entrepreneur's 

passion, which coupled with investment 

capital, unlocks further potential enabling 

the entrepreneur to achieve their growth 

ambitions. 

From left: Cropp, Dr Charlston, and Luai at a celebration event in Manila, the Philippines to 

welcome UDC into Oracare Group 


Following Oracare’s venture in Thailand in 2019, 

where it scaled the MOS Dental brand from 

14 to 30 clinics within the span of four years 

despite headwinds from the pandemic, the 

group has similar ambitions for its newest clinic 

partner since its partnership on 27 Oct 2023. 

“Our goals for UDC in the Philippines over the 

next five years are ambitious yet strategic, 

drawing inspiration from the successful 

growth of the MOS dental partnership in 

Thailand,” said Andy Cropp, CFO of Oracare. 

Demographics such as a dentist to population 

ratio of 1:4,000 and a large economy drew 

Oracare’s attention to the Philippines as an 

under-served market with significant growth 

opportunities. 

“We want to position UDC as the market 

leader in the Philippines, particularly focusing 

on expanding access to high-quality dental 

care in both urban and provincial areas, 

surpassing industry standards. This would 

increase UDC's presence beyond the capital 

Manila, by strategically establishing clinics 

in key provinces, ensuring a wider reach and 

impact on dental healthcare accessibility,” 

Cropp added. 

Leon Luai, CEO of Oracare, echoed his cofounder’s 

enthusiasm: “Collectively, we are 

confident in achieving the same trajectory 

of growth in the major cities and provinces. 

Oracare is about backing dental entrepreneurs 

in South East Asian countries in their growth 

journey.” 

To achieve this market leadership, the 

co-founders, together with Dr Charlston Uy, 

founder of UDC, have set out three primary 

goals. First, they intend to develop UDC into 

a recognised centre of excellence for dental 

care; this would involve elevating its clinical 

standards, offering cutting-edge treatments, 

and ensuring exceptional patient care. Second, 

the group aims to leverage the expertise within 

UDC to establish it as a hub for dental training 

and education to contribute to the growth 

and development of dental professionals 

in the Philippines. Third, they will foster 

partnerships with local healthcare institutions, 

industry influencers, and government bodies 

to strengthen UDC's position within the dental 

healthcare landscape. 


19


“By replicating our successful model applied 

to MOS dental partnership, we plan to adopt 

strategies that have proven effective in driving 

growth and excellence in dental healthcare 

services,” said Cropp. 

For Oracare however, potential partnerships 

require more than just attractive business 

opportunities, as it follows a strategic 

approach when identifying its partners. By 

focusing on fostering entrepreneurship, the 

emphasis of its partnerships lies in ensuring 

a strong cultural fit and building robust 

relationships from the outset to achieve a 

long-term collaboration. 

“Our Thailand approach started by assessing 

dental businesses in terms of their market 

segment, scale, and reputation. These 

candidates were eventually narrowed down to 

MOS Dental who had 14 clinics at the time,” 

said Luai. 

Another key criterion to partner selection 

is alignment with Oracare's core values of 

professionalism, respect, integrity, dedication, 

and entrepreneurship. 

“Dr Charlston, founder and CEO of UDC, 

shared with us his vision as well as his pain 

points, which were very similar to those that 

Dr Adisorn, founder and CEO of MOS Dental, 

faced during his growth journey. We are 

confident that we can value-add to each other 

and this culminated in the establishment 

of the partnership,” said Luai. “For UDC, our 

discussion started in 2019 after they read in 

Dental Asia about our joining forces with MOS 

Dental.” 

ORACARE’S ROADMAP FOR ITS 

GROWING NETWORK 

Beyond its plans with UDC in the Philippines, 

the co-founders shared that Oracare’s 

trajectory in South East Asia involves a 

multifaceted approach, including targeted 

partnerships, market-specific collaborations, 

and establishing specialised clinics to meet 

the diverse dental care needs of locals, 

tourists and expatriate populations. 

The group is currently exploring a strategic 

partnership in Thailand, specifically with a 

well-established and reputable brand serving 

the premium segment. This initiative aims 

to capitalise on the strengths and market 

positioning of a premium segment partner to 

expand Oracare’s influence in the Thai dental 

market. 

For its operation in Indonesia, the group is 

eyeing a dual approach which seeks to tap into 

diverse market segments to cater for a broad 

spectrum of dental care needs in Indonesia. 

First it is focused on growing its premium Tawa 

Dental brand; second it is looking to establish 

a presence with a mass-market brand by 

leveraging existing relationships. 

Oracare has also outlined a growth plan for 

Expat Dental with a vision to serve globallymobile 

individuals and their families through 

a network of clinics in major Asian cities 

and expatriate hotspots. Using its flagship 

clinic in Singapore as a springboard, its first 

international step will be its upcoming clinic in 

Bali, Indonesia, slated to open in Q1 2024. This 

strategy placement will enable it to fulfil its 

goal of being the go-to provider for expatriate 

communities in the region. 

Beyond existing markets, Oracare is also 

exploring collaborative opportunities for 

expansions into new and emerging markets 

by cultivating relationships with founders of 

dental groups in Vietnam, Cambodia, and 

Malaysia. “In the next five years, Oracare 

envisions an expansion strategy that solidifies 

its position as the premier dental group in 

South East Asia,” said Cropp. 

In addition to these regional strategies, the 

group ensures that its clinics maintain a 

strong focus on providing patient-centric 

services. Teledentistry services have 

been employed to provide patients 

preliminary video discussions with 

dental professionals before deciding 

if a physical visit is warranted. Clinic 

management software and online 

messaging platforms such as WhatsApp 

and Line have been utilised to improve 

communications between patients and 

clinics. A partnership with software-as-aservice 

(SaaS) platform Momos enabled 

better engagement with customers and 

drove the customer lifecycle. 

The group is also incorporating new 

technologies like AI within its 'Smilogy' 

invisible aligners business with plans to further 

integrate augmented reality and imaging 

technologies. VR goggles are also being trialled 

to enhance patient experience by providing 

immersive and interactive elements. 

Other than market-proven technologies, 

Oracare has also been invited to participate in 

the development of new technologies such as 

implementing robotics in dentistry. While still 

in its early stages, Luai shared that robotics is 

showing potential in performing certain dental 

procedures with precision, and robotic systems 

can assist dentists in tasks such as implant 

placement. 

DIFFERENT CULTURES, COMMON 

DESIRES 

With their focus on building a network of clinics 

across South East Asia, Luai and Cropp kept 

abreast of factors driving the overall growth of 

the dental care market in the region. 

According to the pair, there is a growing 

emphasis on dental aesthetics as the rise 

in beauty standards has contributed to an 

upswing in the demand for cosmetic dentistry 

services. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok 

have catalysed a trend towards achieving the 

perfect ‘Instagrammable Smile’ as individuals 

keep pace with evolving beauty standards. 

The co-founders also highlighted that the 

adoption of advanced dental technologies 

among dental providers has attracted 

individuals seeking state-of-the-art dental 

solutions. As awareness and education of oral 

health increase, people are becoming more 

In the near 

future, Oracare 

hopes to include 

four more South 

East Asian 

countries into 

its group 


Leaders of the dental brands in the Oracare family at the Oracare-UDC celebration event in Manila, the Philippines 

proactive in seeking regular dental check-ups 

and adopting preventive measures. 

Other notable developments include 

economic and demographic changes. The 

region's economic growth has resulted in 

higher disposable incomes for a significant 

portion of the population, translating into 

increased spending on dental treatments. 

Ageing populations in some South East Asian 

countries contribute to a higher prevalence 

of dental issues, and a surge in demand for 

restorative and preventive dental treatments. 

More importantly, driving its past and future 

endeavours is an identity and role that 

Oracare sees itself playing in the region. Luai 

and Cropp explained the designation of a ‘pan 

South East Asian’ dental group, which Oracare 

has assumed, is grounded in its commitment 

to advancing oral care across a region marked 

by diverse cultural and healthcare landscapes. 

With a 662 million population and a combined 

GDP of US$3.2tn, ASEAN serves as the 

backdrop of Oracare’s collective vision 

that leverages the talent of the best dental 

entrepreneurs in South East Asia. By fostering 

a sense of unity and shared purpose among 

these diverse talents, Oracare aims to create a 

collaborative network which contributes to the 

advancement of oral care standards across 

borders. 

“Our alignment with ASEAN's economic cooperation 

promotes not only regional growth 

but also the exchange of knowledge and best 

practices in oral care. In essence, Oracare 

Group's ‘pan South East Asian’ identity is 

more than just a designation; it is a strategic 

framework that harmonises diverse talents, 

acknowledges regional distinctions, and 

positions us as a key player in advancing oral 

care standards throughout South East Asia,” 

the pair said. 

However, with this vision lies challenges 

given the differences in language, politics, 

culture, business methods, and levels of 

care in each country. “South East Asia is 

not a homogenous market. Unlike the US or 

China, the entry barrier to create a pan South 

East Asian group is high. Building trusted 

relationships in each market is critical, and 

this takes time," said Cropp. 

“Each country and their clinics may have 

unique approaches to patient interaction, 

treatment methodologies, and business 

operations as well as varying regulatory 

environments. While navigating through 

the different regulatory frameworks and 

compliance requirements in each country, 

being adaptive to adhere to the diverse 

regulations is crucial for seamless operations,” 

said Luai. 

A nuanced understanding of cultural 

preferences and local trends facilitates the 

tailoring of marketing strategies to resonate 

with diverse customer bases. “Adapting 

promotional campaigns to suit each market 

is essential. For instance, restorative and 

aesthetic are increasingly in demand in 

Singapore but may not in high demand in the 

Philippines yet,” Luai added. 

Despite the varying cultures and practices, 

the co-founders believe that there are more 

similarities than differences across countries 

and consumers. “What is universal across all 

countries is the common desire of patients 

to have access to quality dentistry in a 

modern, well-equipped clinic with high 

hygiene standards, dentists with excellent 

clinical skills, and clinic staff with a focus on 

customer service,” said Luai. 

Moreover, the common challenges faced 

by dental providers will continue to be a 

driver for like-minded practitioners to join 

forces with larger groups like Oracare in 

order to leverage potential synergies for 

mutual benefit. “In the current environment 

of hyper competition for talent, many clinic 

owners experience high staff turnover. 

Rising consumable, supply costs as well as 

utilities are eating into operating margins. 

Clinic owners also find it difficult to set aside 

dedicated resources to market their services 

to consumers and corporations and compete 

in the over-saturated online marketing 

channels,” said Luai. 

He added: “This is where the growth 

platform that we have developed comes 

into play. For example, we were able to offer 

structured career paths, with onboarding 

and training programme, hence attracting 

new talent with no prior experience in dental 

assisting, as well as retaining the best and 

the brightest. With scale, we are also better 

able to deploy staff to cross cover clinics 

that experience staff absenteeism.” 

The confluence of economic, technological, 

and social factors provides a timely tailwind 

boost for the ambitions and strategies 

charted by Oracare. With its proven business 

model and collective experience gained from 

past ventures, Luai and Cropp are confident 

of replicating the success of Oracare in the 

Philippines and beyond. DA 


21


Undergraduate students studying Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy from 

the National University of Singapore (NUS) will be able to gain deeper and broader 

knowledge and understanding of healthcare issues and challenges through a new 

interdisciplinary Common Curriculum. Dental Asia speaks with Professor Chris 

Peck, Dean of NUS Faculty of Dentistry, and Associate Professor Wong Mun Loke, 

Vice Dean (Education) of NUS Faculty of Dentistry, on how the changes in the 

curriculum and the wider healthcare landscape will influence dental education. 

By James Yau 

A common foundation for 

preventive and integrative 

healthcare 

Since August 2023, Dentistry undergraduates 

from NUS joined peers from Medicine, 

Nursing and Pharmacy as the first cohort of 

students enrolled in a new curriculum aimed at 

enhancing undergraduate healthcare education 

to future-proof Singapore’s healthcare system. 

The new interdisciplinary Common Curriculum 

was introduced for undergraduates in Dentistry, 

Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy where about 

870 first-year students enrolled in five specially 

designed pillars together, collaborating across 

the four healthcare disciplines as part of their 

learning journey. 

Interdisciplinary and collaborative skills are at the centre of a new transformative Common Curriculum 

offered by NUS to train future healthcare professionals 

Against the background of the nation’s 

healthcare initiative — Healthier SG — which 

focuses on integrated and preventive care, 

doctors, nurses, dentists and pharmacists 

will need to work together to support and 

holistically care for the community in all 

aspects of their healthcare needs. 

The cross-disciplinary curriculum seeks to 

cultivate in students the awareness of social 

issues and their impact on health, teamwork, 

communication skills, professionalism, digital 

literacy, and interprofessional education. 

“Given the well-established relationships 

between oral health and general health, for 

example between periodontal disease and 

diabetes, there is value in the interprofessional 

management of patients to ensure their oral 

and general health needs are appropriately 

addressed. This underscores the need to begin 

equipping healthcare profession students 

with the knowledge of such oral-systemic 

interactions through platforms such as the 

Common Curriculum,” said Assoc Prof Wong. 

COMMON GROUND 

The newly curated Common Curriculum 

draws on academic content from Dentistry, 

Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy, and has 

to be completed in the first two years of 

candidature. It complements the existing 

curriculum of the four disciplines and 

comprises five pillars — Social and Behavioural 

Determinants of Health, The Foundations 

of Health Professionalism, Basic Skills in 

Health Professionalism, and two pillars that 

address different aspects of data literacy 

for healthcare — with each course to be 

completed within 13 weeks. 

For Dentistry students, its scope and contents 

reinforce the pre-clinical curriculum delivered 

in the first two years of the Bachelor of Dental 

Surgery (BDS) programme. “What used to be 

taught uni-professionally, is now taught interprofessionally 

among Dentistry, Medicine, 

Nursing and Pharmacy students. For instance, 

our dental students now learn about the 

'Social and Behavioural Determinants of 

Health' as well as 'Patient Communication' 

together with their peers from the other 



healthcare programmes through the Common 

Curriculum instead of learning it among 

themselves," explained Assoc Prof Wong. 

The interdisciplinary collaborative learning, 

facilitated by the Common Curriculum, not 

only allows students from different healthcare 

disciplines to better understand the broad 

range of health issues faced by patients; it 

also allows them to better understand the 

roles and responsibilities of the various 

healthcare professionals. 

“With an increasingly ageing population, 

many older adults may present with medical 

conditions alongside their oral health issues. 

The co-management of these patients by the 

larger healthcare team comprising doctors, 

nurses, pharmacists and dentists will ensure 

that older adult patients receive holistic, 

comprehensive and quality care,” Assoc Prof 

Wong added. 

In real-world practice, the need to refer 

patients for different aspects of care will be 

required. Armed with an understanding of 

common health issues and the professional 

roles played by various members of the 

healthcare team, students can better plan 

appropriate referrals for their patients when 

they graduate and enter the healthcare 

workforce in the future. Furthermore, 

with students from different healthcare 

programmes learning together, they can 

also pick up skills on interprofessional 

communication. 

In addition to increased collaboration across 

healthcare disciplines, the new Common 

Curriculum seeks to inculcate preventive 

health paradigms. As part of the ‘Healthier SG’ 

vision, the significance of prevention across 

one’s lifespan is emphasised. Coupled with 

rising developments in preventive health tools 

through AI software and data collection, oral 

healthcare professionals play an important 

role in providing good preventive strategies for 

population health. 

“Preventive dentistry has always been 

a fundamental and pivotal part of oral 

healthcare to help individuals maintain good 

oral health and avoid the need for complex 

treatment. Beyond dental health education, 

oral healthcare professionals are also well 

positioned to offer opportunistic health 

education to promote healthy lifestyles, 

including healthy diets and tobacco cessation 

advice, among their patients. The Common 

Curriculum is therefore well-poised to equip 

our students with the knowledge and skills to 

help their patients engage in more preventive 

health practices," said Assoc Prof Wong. 

The shift in healthcare is not only visible 

top-down from institutional planners, but 

also within a wider public attitude towards 

the future of healthcare. Gabriel Tan Yih- 

Shyan, a first-year BDS student at the NUS 

Faculty of Dentistry, finds the new Common 

Curriculum an apt reflection of the healthcare 

transformation which has expanded his 

perception of dentistry and redefined the very 

essence of the roles of dental professionals. 

"Prevention is an important part of healthcare. 

Guiding patients on the preventive steps they 

should take to maintain good oral hygiene and 

minimise the need for invasive treatment is an 

equally important aspect of being a dentist,” 

said Tan. “To do so, dental professionals 

must be able to decipher the intricate socioecological 

factors influencing their patient’s 

oral health." 

Tan highlighted how the course on 'Social 

and Behavioural Determinants of Health' 

shaped his perspective as a future healthcare 

professional. “This course underscores the 

clinical imperative of transcending mere 

diagnoses, encouraging me to view patients 

as intricate whole individuals. By assigning 

equal significance to the socio-ecological 

factors influencing their health, I am better 

equipped not just to treat their existing 

conditions but to empower them on a 

transformative path to holistic wellbeing,” 

Tan said. 

DATA, APPROACHES, AND 

EDUCATION 

On the evergreen challenge to “futureproof” 

dental students and professionals 

in an evolving future, Prof Peck takes the 

consideration of how the communities served 

are changing and then adapting to these 

changes as the first step. 

“Across Asia, our populations are ageing, 

and there is much diversity culturally, 

educationally, and socioeconomically. These 

and other social determinants of health 

play a large role in shaping one’s oral health 

and access to care. Consequently, dental 

practitioners need to individualise care so 

that it is person-centred, considering the 

individual's biological, psychological and social 

factors,” said Prof Peck. 

Prof Peck explained that this “biopsychosocial” 

approach is especially important for the 

dental practitioner as the oral and craniofacial 

region is important for an individual's physical 

and emotional identity, for verbal and nonverbal 

communication, mastication, and is 

associated with the very important special 

senses of taste, smell, vision and hearing. 

Specific skills required of a dental practitioner 

include cultural competence, an understanding 

of the needs of elderly patients and other 

groups who are at risk of poorer oral health, 

a focus on interprofessional collaborative 

practice to integrate oral health in the broader 

healthcare context, and communication skills 

to deal with the diverse range of health literacy 

in our communities. 

“Healthcare contributes substantially to 

environmental degradation and we all need 

to take steps to minimise or reverse this 

impact through a focus on sustainable oral 

healthcare. A greater focus on preventive care 

reduces the need for operative and surgical 

treatments and when these are needed, they 

should be planned and implemented carefully 

ensuring high quality, predictable outcomes. 

Advances in the digital workflow and AI can 

help here with efficient use of resources and 

optimising individualised care," said Prof Peck. 

Data literacy skills will empower healthcare 

and dental professionals in navigating 

transformations in their respective fields (Image: 

Unsplash/ Carlos Muza) 

DENTAL ASIA JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024 23

Prof Peck addressing the cohort of first-year students and their family members in September 2023 

Dental education has embraced technologies 

and advanced simulation learning 

environments to help students develop 

competency through individualised training of 

such surgical skills. 

Some of the initiatives at the NUS Faculty of 

Dentistry to integrate technology in student 

learning include a collaboration with the 

NUS College of Design and Engineering to 

develop a 3D-printed dental extraction kit to 

simulate teeth extraction for a broad range 

of scenarios. A 3D-printed silicon device was 

also developed to train students to administer 

local anaesthesia in an augmented-reality 

setting before performing on actual patients. 

Digital workflows are utilised to improve 

outcomes in oral and maxillofacial surgery 

through customised 3D-printed maxillofacial 

prostheses to reconstruct and promote bone 

growth in bony defects. 

“Of course, we need to consider the impact of 

technology on an individual’s data privacy and 

the responsible use of technology in decisionmaking. 

These are not issues unique to 

dentistry and we have developed the Common 

Curriculum across health professions to 

address such issues," said Prof Peck. 

Alongside the increasing use of technology in 

dentistry, there is a growing awareness of the 

need to harness data in informing the practice 

of evidence-based oral healthcare. In an 

age of big data, the role of such information 

and an understanding of how it is collected, 

managed, and analysed will help students 

to make use of it, and guide their decisionmaking 

processes in the diagnosis and 

subsequent design of patient treatment plans. 

With this context in mind, a keen awareness 

and appreciation of how data can be critiqued 

will help students embrace evidence-informed 

approaches to healthcare. To achieve this, 

two pillars of the Common Curriculum seek to 

imbue skills and knowledge in data literacy. 

The first-year course on data literacy features 

components of evidence-based practice 

and covers the principles of data analysis as 

well as decision-making under uncertainty 

which are relevant to clinical practice. This 

foundation is expanded further in a secondyear 

course which explores skills such as 

computational thinking, data science, AI, and 

machine learning in the healthcare context, 

and more. 

"Healthcare needs to be underpinned by 

evidence and while there have been enormous 

advances in biomedical research over the past 

century, we are considering a more integrated 

approach of research, education and clinical 

care so that research is targeted, and research 

findings are implemented effectively and 

efficiently," said Prof Peck. 

Such an approach can be used in various 

stages of the student lifecycle, from 

undergraduate through to postgraduate 

education and continuing professional 

development, to help develop and maintain 

competencies. 

Furthermore, Prof Peck believes that a personcentred, 

rather than patient-centred 

approach, is needed to manage oral health at 

both individual and population levels to place 

greater emphasis on prevention. This is 

illustrated where dental professionals typically 

believe chronic pain patients are primarily keen 

on reducing pain intensity. However, these 

patients often prioritise a desire to restore their 

regular family, social and work activities. 

Another interprofessional approach involves 

working with language experts to enhance 

communication and health literacy to improve 

applied research and community health 

outcomes. 

“Importantly, all of us in dental education and 

research need to consider what the dental 

professional of 2030 and beyond looks like, 

as we are now training graduates for then. 

The dental professional needs to be firmly 

embedded as part of the healthcare team and 

focus on a person-centred approach,” Prof 

Peck concluded. 

With the confluence of economic conditions, 

society values, technology enablers, and 

demographic factors shaping health and 

healthcare across the globe, the new Common 

Curriculum will better prepare students across 

various health professions to take on the 

healthcare needs of the population. DA 



Turning customer feedback 

into product improvement 

Amid the constant flurry of launches and upgrades 

for the latest dental product, how do some 

product features make the cut while others miss 

out? Alexis Miche shares on his role as a product 

manager at Ackuretta and how feedback gets 

transformed into new features for users. 

By James Yau 

As a product manager, Miche is responsible 

for all aspects of Ackuretta’s products 

and leads the strategic development of 

new products. He supervises the product 

development lifecycle of a given product to 

ensure it progresses on time and on budget 

prior to the go-to market phase. 

A big part of his role is product improvement. 

This entails the collection of feedback, 

recommending product improvements 

to engineering teams, implementing new 

features, and communicating the changes 

across the organisation. 

“While feedback is important in creating 

a user-friendly product, it is important for 

us to gauge the risks 

and benefits of any new 

product feature to ensure it 

is the most optimal use of 

our available capacity and 

resources,” said Miche. 

“The key variables important to consider for 

any new product launch or product update are 

the value a feature provides to the user and the 

difficulty of its implementation.” 

AN EAR TO THE GROUND 

As a product manager, Miche believes it is 

important to stay attuned to the demands 

and needs of customers at different stages 

of a given product. He employs a variety 

of mechanisms through which feedback 

is collected to help him stay in touch with 

customers. 

This includes training sessions, interactions 

with Ackuretta’s customer support team, 

communication with its partner dentists, social 

media channels, and surveys sent to users. 

“Our Ackuretta User Group on Facebook is an 

invaluable tool for us to engage directly with 

our users to hear their issues and suggestions 

in real time as well as get their feedback as to 



the direction we should go with updates,” 

said Miche. 

One product from Ackuretta where such 

feedback mechanisms are at play is its new 

AI-assisted 3D slicing software, ALPHA AI. 

At its launch on 10 Jan 2023, the company 

promised to release constant updates every 

three months to add new features and 

functions to the dental 3D printing software. 

The latest update to the software on 9 Nov 

2023 included three new compatible 

applications for denture base, denture teeth, 

and removable die. 

“We hold regular training sessions with 

users which serve as a very effective forum 

to collect feedback and understand how 

Ackuretta products can be improved. Tools 

such as surveys and feedback forms are also 

used to engage with ALPHA AI users to get 

their thoughts on the software and how it 

could be improved,” said Miche. 

Moreover, internal customer support and 

product support teams play important roles 

in collecting feedback as they liaise directly 

with end users, including its partner dentists 

who often have early access to new ALPHA AI 

updates. 

Before launch, products are sent to partners 

such as resin manufacturers and dental 

professionals to gather feedback for product 

development and improvement processes. 

Furthermore, pre-launch internal processes 

collect feedback and review based on the 

requirements of different teams internally. 

Miche meets both before and after product 

launch with Ackuretta’s R&D and customer 

success teams to go over proposed features 

and create a priority list for the engineering 

team. 

“This process ensures that we adhere to our 

organisational standards and are able to 

release an update to our existing products 

every three months at minimum,” said Miche. 

The feedback mechanisms also follow 

the same principles and processes for the 

company’s hardware products. However, due 

to the limited interactions with the end users 

as compared to its software counterparts, 

distributors are relied on as a channel for 

feedback. 

“In most of our markets we work with 

hardware distributors who interface directly 

with our end consumers. Working with 

distributors gives us a comprehensive sense 

of common questions and feedback from 

users worldwide,” said Miche. 

“Naturally we are aware of what our 

competitors are doing and strive to continue 

positioning our products in a premium place 

in the market,” he added. 

Miche does this by following conversations 

online about what end users are looking for. 

Media coverage on dentistry, 3D printing, and 

technology are channels where he keeps up 

to date on emerging developments for his 

consideration. 

A BALANCING ACT 

Another skill required of the product manager 

is to balance requirements and expectations 

of internal teams, where different teams have 

differing views of a product. 

“For example, the R&D team may consider 

a product based on its difficulty and cost to 

implement while marketing evaluates it based 

on its performance quality and support is 

concerned about its user friendliness and 

ease of repair,” explained Miche. 

Miche strikes the balance by being clear on 

the most important aspects of the products 

and judging the right way forward based 

on a cumulative view of the key variables. 

Customer data can clarify between the 

subjective and bottom-line benefits which 

makes it easier for decision making. 

“We often have meetings between heads of 

departments before big launches or updates 

to go over the most important factors and 

judge the importance for users. Sometimes it 

is easy to decide and sometimes it is not. The 

most important thing is to have buy-in and 

understanding across our organisation,” 

said Miche. 

With the service for customers as its main 

priority, Miche added that the benefit and 

value provided to the user always comes 

first. “Getting to the final decision internally is 

about putting our team in the best position to 

enable the user to get the best results for their 

practice and patients,” Miche added. 

ON THE OUTLOOK 

For Miche, to stay at the forefront of the 

evolution of dentistry requires a keen 

awareness of not only the latest trends and 

technologies within the industry, but also 

across various sectors as he shared what he 

has been keeping his eye on. 

“AI continues to have expanding applications 

in dentistry. ALPHA AI’s functionalities 

continue to expand, particularly with the 

addition of new dental applications which 

benefit from AI-generated supports and autoorientation. 

We are currently exploring how AI 

can be integrated effectively in other aspects 

of the dental 3D-printing workflow and expect 

to see breakthroughs in the coming years.” 

Another trend that Miche noticed broadly is 

towards multi-use hardware that is designed 

for results across different industries and 

printed applications. He also highlighted that 

it is essential for products to have the highest 

results for the full range of dental applications 

while considering the needs of practitioners 

ranging from high volume labs to smaller 

clinics with a low capacity. 

“While our focus is on the dentistry market, 

we continue to strive to create adaptable 

products which can produce the highest 

quality applications for different needs and 

customers.” DA 


How to future-proof a 

dental school 

Dental schools globally are faced with a constant need to assess the technology 

and equipment used to equip students with relevant skills in an ever-evolving 

industry. Providing fully digital and customisable solutions for the varying needs 

of over 300 dental schools, manufacturers like Planmeca play a crucial part in 

supporting the design and build of these education spaces. 

When it comes to designing spaces where 

the next generation of dentists is trained, it 

is not as simple as plugging and fitting the 

most modern technology but ensuring the 

investments made equip students with the 

skills to navigate the foreseeable future. 

Universities with dental faculties like the 

University of Hong Kong (HKU) has witnessed 

the struggle with keeping up with the fast 

technological change in dentistry. Likewise, 

for the University of British Columbia (UBC), it 

is important to find a solution that is not only 

durable but also looks great year after year, 

since resources for continuously upgrading 

the facilities are often limited. 

At the crux of this struggle is director of aftersales 

and university projects for Planmeca, 

Jussi Ylisaari where he helps dental schools 

navigate the constant battle for needs and the 

advancements that industry has to offer. 

“It all starts with a dialogue with the dental 

school. We want to learn the school’s specific 

needs and visions. How do they teach? What 

exact factors are relevant to them? Once we 

understand these aspects, we can tell them 

how Planmeca’s dental school solutions can 

improve their unique environment,” Jussi 

Ylisaari told Dental Asia. “It is an ongoing 

dialogue, but our focus is always on adapting 

to the school’s needs. They are the educational 

experts. Our job is to make sure that our 

technologies and implementations optimally 

support the school and the valuable work done 

there,” Ylisaari commented. 

DURABILITY IN FUNCTION AND STYLE 

In 2022, the UBC Faculty of Dentistry upgraded 

the 144 dental care units in their Nobel Biocare 

Oral Health Centre (OHC) dental clinic and 

opened a new simulation laboratory. The main 

goals for these projects were to enhance 

the learning environment, facilitate patient 

care and ensure the students will continue 

to receive the best possible educational 

experience over the next decade. 

“We like to train competent general dentists 

that are also critical thinkers. This way, as 

new technologies and methodologies are 

applied to dentistry, our students will be able 

to assess those and incorporate them in their 

private practices,” said Dr Mary MacDougall, 

professor and dean of the Faculty of Dentistry 

at the UBC at the time of the investment. 

The Faculty of Dentistry at UBC hosts around 

500 students across their degree and postgraduate 

programmes, receiving 550-650 

applications for the DMD programme, among 

which 65 applicants are accepted. Dental 

education revolves around the student as a 

learner and according to Dr MacDougall, this 

is accomplished by offering the students the 

necessary means for the training. 



“The durability of the products and the service 

by Planmeca, which we had witnessed firsthand, 

was essential for us and helped us 

make the decision. Given the prior reliability 

and generally low maintenance needs of 

Planmeca dental units, Planmeca was also 

very competitive from the standpoint of 

pricing and the product’s capabilities. With 

regards to usability, they are quite intuitive,” 

said Dr MacDougall. 

In addition to upgrading the OHC with 

Planmeca Compact i Classic dental units, UBC 

opened the 123Dentist Simulation Laboratory 

with Planmeca Compact iSim simulation 

units in September 2022. The laboratory 

layout was planned together with Planmeca 

to fit the simulation laboratory in the existing 

premises and to ensure efficiency and smooth 

simulation workflows in the facility. 

“We had limited space available for the 

simulation laboratory. Therefore, the 

layout design was very critical to facilitate 

student learning and allow instructor 

access throughout the learning process,” 

Dr MacDougall said. “Since Planmeca 

had vast experience in designing other 

simulation facilities, they were able to help 

us with their knowledge. They made very 

valuable suggestions on the floor plan as 

well as format. Similar to dental units, the 

simulation equipment is aesthetically modern 

and pleasing, so the 123Dentist Simulation 

Laboratory is truly a showcase for us here at 

the university.” 

On an annual basis, over 40,000 patients 

are taken care of in the OHC, which means 

the equipment is in high use throughout 

the year. At this end, Ylisaari highlighted 

how Planmeca products can be updated 

and retrofitted with new features instead of 

replacing them, which also makes Planmeca 

units a sustainable choice for dental schools. 

“What sets Planmeca apart from others is 

that instead of individual products we offer 

an entire platform. We fully understand that 

these are sizable, 15-20-year investments for 

dental schools, so we create equipment with 

long lifespans.” 

Ylisaari added: “They are manufactured from 

durable materials and can be upgraded with 

new technologies as time passes. We have 

The 123Dentist Simulation Laboratory at UBC 

Dentistry has 73 Planmeca Compact iSim 

simulation units 

kept our product development process entirely 

in-house so that we are able to remain agile 

and to quickly react to new trends as they 

emerge. For decades, we have closely listened 

to dental schools to create consistently better 

and meaningful products and solutions.” 

DIGITALISATION IN APAC 

Across the Pacific for Dr Gary S P Cheung, 

the biggest challenge for dental education 

today is indeed the disparity between the 

necessary investments in new technologies 

and the available resources to fund these 

investments. 

Over the past decade, the clinical professor 

who has since assumed a new position 

in the Shenzhen Hospital of the HKU has 

overseen the undergraduate dental studies 

at the university’s Faculty of Dentistry. His 

experience in upgrading the faculty’s facilities 

emphasised early exposure to clinical training. 

“Thirty years ago, when you wanted to explore 

the most modern equipment, you could visit 

any dental school in town rather than a dental 

practice. Today it is the other way around. 

Worldwide, it is usually dental practices that 

are using the latest digital tools rather than 

universities,” said Dr Cheung. 

“Our students get exposed to the clinical 

environment very early, as they start training 

in the simulation laboratory from the second 

year onwards. Although they start their work 

with very simple things, they already get 

to experience the clinical environment and 

handle real instruments first-hand.” 

In 2017, the simulation laboratory at the HKU 

Faculty of Dentistry was equipped with 82 

Planmeca simulation units, two of which 

are designated for teaching purposes. The 

laboratory was expanded further in 2023 

with 20 Planmeca Compact iSim units. The 

simulation laboratory allows HKU students to 

utilise digital dental equipment from the very 

start of their preclinical studies. 

The facilities also encompass eight lead-lined 

Planmeca ProX intraoral x-ray simulation 

cabinets, allowing students to practise 

intraoral imaging techniques safely, as well 

as one Planmeca ProScanner imaging plate 

scanner. 

“We wanted a simulation environment that is 

future-proof and able to integrate our teaching 

technology. The Planmeca simulation 

laboratory has proven to do just that. The 

beauty of Planmeca is that the simulation 

unit with a phantom head is exactly the same 

as the clinical units we use in the university 

hospital, which makes the transition from 

simulation to actual clinical work easier,” Dr 

Cheung said. 

Students also learn to view and process the 

intraoral x-ray images they have captured with 

the intraoral imaging simulation cabinets. 

These images are immediately available in 

Planmeca Romexis software on the student’s 

workstation. 

“I can see that our students like the Planmeca 

equipment and especially the AV connection 

of the simulation units. The clinic’s layout, 

which we planned together with Planmeca, 

also allows us to teach our students all at the 

same time or separately, and the students 

really appreciate that they always have the 

same working setup either way,” Dr Cheung 

added. 

Planmeca assembles a dedicated team for 

each university project, which supports the 

dental school in every stage of the project 

from vision to equipment deliveries and 



The layout plan of the simulation laboratory 

extension at HKU Faculty of Dentistry with 20 

Planmeca Compact iSim units 

maintenance. The team offers advice on 

matters such as optimising floor space, 

efficient organisation of supplies, necessary 

clinic utilities, infection control routines, 

material and patient flows, and adapting the 

space to different educational needs. 

“Another thing that really impressed us about 

Planmeca was the communication. We 

could ask all kinds of questions about the 

configuration and placement of the devices, 

and we were involved throughout the project 

and in the clinical layout planning,” said 

Dr Cheung. 

Every year, the HKU Faculty of Dentistry 

receives thousands of applications for the 

BDS programme, where 90 applicants are 

accepted into the BDS programme. The key to 

its learning places a strong emphasis on highcalibre 

dental research and a problem-based 

learning (PBL) curriculum. 

In PBL, students are presented with reallife 

clinical problems where they learn to 

solve in interactive groups. The students are 

encouraged to face clinical challenges and 

apply new technologies with an open mind — 

which is necessary in the ever-evolving world 

of dentistry. The PBL approach is reinforced 

by practical training, both in preclinical and 

clinical setting. Moreover, the students gather 

interprofessional experience for example 

by training alongside dental hygienists and 

dental surgery assistants. 

Planmeca’s platform-based solutions 

provided an ideal solution for this challenge 

with their upgradability: All products can 

be easily upgraded with new features and 

functionalities as they become available, for 

example with software updates and retrofits. 

New features are regularly introduced to 

Romexis software, ensuring users have 

access to the latest innovations in dentistry 

for years to come. The university will also 

benefit from the new AI-based features of 

Romexis once they become available. 

Ylisaari believes that technology is becoming 

less of a trend and more of a requirement in 

dentistry. 

“It is no longer something that is nice to have, 

but rather an indispensable part of learning. 

Today’s students are the first truly digital 

generation, Gen Z. They are fast to adapt to 

new technological environments and expect 

to use the latest innovations in their education 

and work. This is really a global phenomenon, 

but one that is also very clearly visible in the 

APAC region," he said. 

CAUSE AND EFFECT 

In both universities, a knock-on effect of 

its future-proofing efforts is a rise in global 

rankings and applications volume for its 

programmes. 

For research at the HKU Faculty of Dentistry, 

the university rankings have sparked a positive 

cycle. The university rankings have had little 

effect on the number of BDS applicants. 

Instead, the increased international attention 

generated by the rankings has made the postgraduate 

training and specialist training more 

appealing to international applicants. 

On the one hand, the prominent position in 

the rankings is partly due to the university’s 

investments in clinical and non-clinical 

Future-proofing efforts at both universities has 

had a larger impact of raising their profile across 

its body of academic programmes and research 

research. On the other hand, the heightened 

attention caused by the rankings has 

contributed to an environment that fosters 

research. 

“Our faculty staff has quite a high publication 

rate per capita and we have dedicated 

professors to ensure our involvement in 

high-calibre research, too. Our researchers 

also train PhD students and collaborate a lot, 

which enhances the visibility of our research 

and helps get more citations, which in turn 

contributes to our rankings,” Dr Cheung 

explained. 

As for UBC, the new facilities with Planmeca 

products have also contributed to students 

choosing the university, according to Dr 

MacDougall. As students are interviewed 

for admission to UBC Dentistry, they are 

presented with videos and photographs 

highlighting the facilities, and the new 

simulation laboratory is one of those facilities 

being highlighted. 

“The new facility is quite impressive. We have 

heard from our students that having such 

high-tech equipment to support their learning 

is one of the features why they have chosen 

UBC,” Dr MacDougall said. “We appreciate the 

due diligence by the entire Planmeca team in 

the initial planning and design phase because 

I think that has led to the success we have 

had in recent years.” 

Keeping an eye on future developments, 

Ylisaari alluded to digitalisation and AI as 

considerable ongoing drivers. He further 

noted that self-learning and self-assessment 

are also increasingly relevant trends, where 

students are becoming more independent in 

some aspects, leading to a shift away from 

traditional lecture-based learning. Digital tools 

open up numerous possibilities for supporting 

this shift. 

“Our responsibility is to help integrate these 

new tools into the educational environment, 

to have them support learning,” he said. 

“Transitioning to digital dentistry teaching 

does not happen overnight and might be 

challenging due to various reasons. Our 

adaptive, platform-based solutions are 

designed to support the schools during every 

phase of this journey.” DA 




Imagine a virtual realm where dental practitioners 

could attend live dental exhibitions, education 

programmes, and networking meetups from anywhere 

in the world. With advancements in virtual reality (VR) 

technology, virtual events could soon be a staple of the 

dental industry. Dental Asia speaks with dental Web3 

and mixed reality platform Dentaverse on the potential 

and future of the virtual world. By James Yau 

At its core, the Dentaverse seeks to solve the 

problem of information isolation within global 

dentistry. 

“Although information distribution worldwide 

is pretty good, there is a small percentage 

of the industry that has access to such 

innovative and technological information. 

Through virtual events and hybrid models, you 

can open the market to more people and have 

the information readily available for a bigger 

audience,” said COO for Dentaverse, Floris 

Keyzer. 

Founded in 2022, Dentaverse started as an 

NFT community who saw an opportunity 

in the potential of VR. Where traditional 

avenues for dental learning experiences, event 

hosting, and networking opportunities would 

be limited by geographical and economic 

factors, Dentaverse aims to provide a platform 

where the same content, opportunities and 

experiences can be accessed virtually. 

light design provide a leap in visual fidelity in 

these dynamic spaces with a touch of artistic 

direction and realism. 

Among the benefits of a virtual world are more 

access to high-quality dental education by 

eliminating the need for physical infrastructure 

and travel, and the removal of geographical 

barriers enabling dental professionals and 

students to connect effortlessly and globally. 

To encourage user adoption for those 

unfamiliar with the technology, a driving focus 

for Dentaverse is about promoting exploration 

and discovery within the platform. 

“By providing resources, tutorials, and support, 

we aim to demystify the technology and 

showcase its practical benefits in the dental 

field. This education-first approach helps 

in gradually building user confidence and 

comfort with the platform, thereby fostering 

a more tech-savvy dental community,” said 

Keyzer. 

He shared that Dentaverse has welcomed 

over 10,000 visitors to its virtual events 

which signalled an increasing acceptance of 

mixed reality as a medium for professional 

engagement and education in the dental 

sector. “The creation of the first global 

dental community has been a major draw 

for users, fostering a sense of belonging and 

shared purpose among dental professionals 

worldwide.” 

In her efforts to educate users on the benefits 

of the medium, Leyla Ibrahimli, head of 

community for Dentaverse, noted that the 

response of users is different based on 

geographic area. 

“Our focus pivots on creating an immersive 

VR experience that transcends traditional 

boundaries of learning and networking in 

dentistry,” Keyzer added. 

WEB3 

Powered by real-time 3D content capabilities 

in Unreal Engine 5, a popular creation engine 

commonly used by game developers, the 

Dentaverse creates live-rendered VR spaces 

in the form of classrooms, conferences, and 

connectivity hubs. The details in geometry and 

Education plays a key role in convincing potential 

users of the benefits of the technology 

For instance, markets in the Middle East 

were open and enthusiastic to trying new 

technologies while consumers from Eastern 

Europe were more pragmatic in seeing 

immediate returns for the technology’s 

functionality. Regulations in the EU also 

caused consumers to be more concerned 

about data privacy and regulation. 

The incorporation of Web3 elements like 

NFTs, decentralisation, and blockchain in 

the core functions of Dentaverse embodies 



“We aim to not only increase our user base 

but also deepen engagement, providing more 

tailored and interactive experiences that 

cater to the diverse needs of our users,” 

Keyzer added. 

For dental professionals, its VR spaces take 

the form of virtual patients where existing 3D 

tools like intraoral scans can be integrated into 

treatments for virtual clinics. 

Virtual patients can explore treatment options in virtual clinics through the 

integration of 3D tools like intraoral scans 

the company’s philosophy of building an 

empowered community of users and user 

experience. Compared to a Web2 era of the 

internet where content is user-generated and 

ownership of virtual spaces are private, the 

new iteration of Web3 focuses on shared 

ownership and transparency of virtual spaces 

through underlying technologies such as the 

blockchain. 

“The integration of Web3 elements in 

Dentaverse aims to enhance security, 

transparency, and user experience. Our future 

vision includes leveraging these technologies 

to further empower our users and foster a 

dynamic and thriving dental community,” 

Keyzer said. 

We are not here trying to create everything 

on our own, but we are there to help those 

who create things to come together and build 

together,” she said. 

Viewing itself as a collaborator rather than a 

competitor, Dentaverse is focusing on dental 

professionals, brands or distributors, and 

educational institutions as its target audiences, 

where VR technology would provide the next 

evolution in patient experiences in an industry 

that was moving towards 3D tools. Medical 

equipment suppliers like Medistock and 

Dumont instruments were among the first 

settlers of Dentaverse integrating their services 

and operations into the collaborative space. 

Furthermore, integrating such tools also 

proves useful for educational providers 

where the use of 3D models and immersive 

and videos of dental procedures provides 

a level of detail and realism that cannot be 

achieved with traditional teaching methods. 

The development of haptic technologies 

further provides opportunities for interactive 

simulations scenarios. 

“Haptic technology is heavily in production 

and development now. I tried it myself during 

IDS [2023]. It is crazy how you can feel the 

difference between a bone, gum, or a metal 

implant,” Ibrahimli said. 

For dental brands and distributors, Dentaverse 

holds the potential of an omnichannel sales 

and marketing tool where virtual showrooms 

display products in a more interactive manner. 

Another tangent for dental brands is the 

opportunity for technical and equipment 

training which could be hosted and simulated 

on the platform. 

Blockchain technology provides a secure 

framework for transactions and data 

management, user information and 

activities against unauthorised access and 

manipulation. The transparent nature of 

blockchain allows for clear and traceable 

records of transactions and interactions 

within the platform. 

Virtual spaces for 

conferences and 

lectures provide a 

more immersive and 

accessible outlet to 

information 

Decentralisation for instance sought to 

give users a stake in building the virtual 

community according to its unique needs. 

Ibrahimli highlighted an example of how 

a group of senior dental students from a 

university in Romania wanted to use the 

platform to engage junior students. “We 

aim to be the ecosystem and hub for open 

creation and integrations with other projects. 


31

Three-dimensional product showrooms provide a more immersive outlet for dental brands 

“If you look at the evolution of marketing or 

sales, starting with a physical shop you may 

extend to a web shop where you can include 

social media for example. Dentaverse adds 

a new Web3 layer to your brand awareness 

and presence to a 24/7 immersive platform,” 

Ibrahimli explained. 

To ease the transition to virtual platforms, 

Dentaverse is promoting a hybrid event model. 

This combines elements of both physical and 

virtual events, allowing users to experience 

the benefits of virtual environments while 

still retaining some aspects of traditional 

conference formats. The approach showcases 

how the technology can complement and 

enhance traditional methods. 

A DIFFERENT REALITY 

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology 

and dentistry, Keyzer and Ibrahimli recognise 

the importance of agility and responsiveness 

to market conditions. 

“How do you ride the wave of an unestablished 

piece of innovation that is followed up very 

rapidly? For example, the difference between 

the first oculus and the latest oculus is 

immense. That kind of made us pivot from 

talking about VR and AR into talking about 

mixed reality,” Keyzer said. 

Ibrahimli believes that the technology 

currently lies in between disruption and 

deception stages, based on growth and 

development models for new technologies: 

“It is in a phase where within a few years or 

months, new developments or innovations 

will totally disrupt the environment and it 

will grow exponentially. Things will become 

lighter, cheaper, and more open for mass 

production.” 

Despite the alluring prospect of disrupting 

the modality of interactions and shaping 

a brand-new virtual world for the dental 

industry, Keyzer and Ibrahimli stand grounded 

in advancing the dental profession over 

technology. Their approach is anchored in 

a dual focus on innovation and user-centric 

development. 

“How do you build an industry in virtual 

reality? There are not many companies having 

this approach specifically aimed at the dental 

industry,” said Keyzer. 

The company envisioned a growing role 

for Web3 elements within the platform. A 

planned initial coin offering (ICO), where a 

virtual currency is launched to public buyers 

in a similar fashion to an initial public offering 

(IPO) to raise capital, aims to provide a 

tangible value proposition, incentivising 

participation and engagement within the 

Dentaverse community. The virtual token 

usable on the platform would be distributed 

and can be earned by users. 

The company is also monitoring the 

evolution of mixed reality hardware and 

software where improvements in the fidelity, 

interactivity, and accessibility of these 

technologies would enable Dentaverse to 

offer even more immersive and realistic 

experiences in virtual dentistry. 

“We know for sure that the technology will 

only develop, and it will get smaller, cheaper, 

and more accessible. I think the lesson 

that we learned in 2023 is that actually 

sometimes the value is not in diversification, 

but in keeping it simple and stupid to a 

certain extent, and going from there,” said 

Ibrahimli. 

Keyzer agreed: “We are going to take 

every element, from the dentists, clinics, 

assistants, students, universities, 

manufacturers and distributor all into this 

platform. That does not mean we want 

people to spend their days in the platform; 

in the end, what makes good technology is 

simplicity and usability.” DA 



The necessary reassessment 

of mask use in dentistry 

By Dr John Hardie BDS, MSc, PhD, FRCDC, and Dr George Freedman BSc, DDS, DiplABAD, FIADFE, FAACD 

INTRODUCTION 

For at least three decades, masks 

have been compulsory requirements 

of the uniform worn by dentists and 

their clinical staff. The impetus for 

this behaviour might well have been 

the belief that masks would prevent 

contamination of blood and saliva 

from HIV infected patients. Although 

such a source of infection has never 

been documented, masked dentists 

have become the rule rather than the 

exception. 

Simultaneously with this development, 

numerous clinical and laboratory 

studies have led to a better 

understanding of how respiratory 

pathogens, and particularly viruses 

are transmitted. These studies raised 

serious doubts concerning the ability 

of traditional masks to stop the 

transmission of respiratory infections 

such as influenza. These concerns 

were ignored during the COVID-19 

pandemic when mask wearing became 

obligatory within all levels of society. 

Fortunately, earlier studies on mask 

efficacy have continued culminating 

in the release of a recent major 

study which proves with as much 

certainty as is possible — that masks 

do not stop the spread of respiratory 

diseases such as COVID-19. 

Based on this understanding, mask 

use in dentistry should be a personal 

decision irrespective of the opinions 

of peers and regulatory authorities. 

This article will provide the evidence to 

substantiate such a reassessment. 

AIRBORNE TRANSMISSION 

A purported reason for a mask is to 

prevent the airborne transmission 

of respiratory pathogens expelled 

as a moisture-laden suspension of 

droplet, and considerably smaller 

aerosol particles, during coughing, 

sneezing, and talking. The suspension 

experiences rapid dehydration which 

results in desiccation of the particles. 

This induces conformational changes 

in the lipid envelopes surrounding 

influenza, respiratory syncytial and 

coronaviruses such that they lose 

their ability to attach to and infect new 

host cells, effectively becoming noninfectious 

(Fig. 1). 1,2 

Fig. 1: Viruses with envelopes are less surface-stable, and more susceptible to disinfectants 



Fig. 2: Masks stop viruses much like this strainer collects sand 

While this phenomenon might be 

one reason why the role of airborne 

transmissions in hospital infections 

and from dental and orthopedic 

aerosols remains debatable, it serves 

to question the necessity of masks. 3,4 

SIZE MATTERS 

A nanometer is one billionth of a 

metre. A strand of human hair is 

approximately between 80,000- 

100,000nm wide. The influenza and 

coronaviruses range from 80-120nm, 

or approximately 0.1µm in diameter. 

This means that approximately 1,000 

of these viruses would fit across the 

width of a human hair. 5,6 The best 

fitting mask will not prevent a single 

human hair from passing between it 

and the face. 

N95 mask fabrics are designed to 

filter out 95% of airborne particles 

provided they are larger than 0.3µm 

in diameter and most surgical mask 

materials filter out particles 2.5µm or 

larger. 7 Therefore, its effectiveness 

in filtering out viruses of 0.1µm in 

diameter is highly questionable. Even 

if such devices did impede the flow of 

influenza and coronaviruses, millions 

of stray viruses would continue to pass 

through the gaps present around the 

periphery of masks. 

In practical terms this means that a 

mask is no more effective at stopping 

viruses than a strainer is at collecting 

sand (Fig. 2). 

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE 

Beginning with studies from 1946, 

a meta-analysis of masks efficacy 

published in February 2020 concluded 

that surgical-type face masks were 

not effective in reducing influenza 

transmissions. 8 

In 2013, nurses from Ontario, Canada, 

filed a grievance against the use 

of masks in lieu of receiving a flu 

vaccination. Independent arbitrators 

in 2015 and 2018 reviewed hundreds 

of relevant documents and found 

that hospitals could not force mask 

mandates because supporting 

evidence was insufficient, inadequate, 

and completely unpersuasive. 9,10 

In 2017 the Centers for Disease 

Control and Prevention (CDC) compiled 

a report based on a 16-year study of 

almost 200 articles concerning nonpharmaceutical 

methods of mitigating 

the effects of influenza pandemics. 

Masks were not mentioned — attesting 

to the CDC’s recognition of its 

ineffectiveness. 11 

The World Health Organization (WHO) 

in 2019, while commenting on the use 

of non-pharmaceutical measures to 

avoid respiratory transmissions, noted 

that: “There is also a lack of evidence 

for the effectiveness of improved 

respiratory etiquette and the use of 

face masks in community settings 

during influenza epidemics and 

pandemics.” 12 

In a March 2020 interview on the ’60 

minutes’ news programme, Dr Anthony 

Fauci stated categorically that “there 

is no reason to be walking around 

wearing a mask”. 13 

The large randomised DANMASK-19 

study released in 2021 concluded that 

surgical masks did not reduce SARS- 

CoV-2 infection rates among wearers in 

a community setting. 14 

This is but a small sample of the 

decades of studies refuting mask 

efficacy. For more extensive reviews, 

readers are referred to: ‘The Mask 

Studies You Should Know’ 15 and ‘More 

than 170 Comparative Studies and 

Articles on Mask Ineffectiveness and 

Harms’. 16 

REAL WORLD DATA 

In his 2022 book, UNMASKED: The 

Global Failure of COVID Mask Mandates, 

Ian Millar provides numerous graphs 

from around the world comparing 

unmasked and masked populations (Fig. 

3). These real-world experiences show 

no appreciable differences in COVID 

infection rates among the two groups. 17 

HARMS 

A fundamental tenet of health care is: 

“First, do no harm”. This applies not only 

to the delivery of healthcare but also 

to measures taken to mitigate disease 

transmission, including the use of 

masks. 

Fig. 3: Mask wearing results in no appreciable difference in the 

number of COVID-19 cases 



The harmful effects of masks include 

increased irritability and headaches, 18 

face mask dermatitis, 19 increased rates 

of caries and gingivitis, 20 and bacterial 

and fungal contamination. 21 Alterations in 

oxygen and carbon dioxide blood levels 

and changes in respiratory physiology 

and function among other harmful effects 

of masks including their ineffectiveness 

are comprehensively discussed by Dr J 

Meehan in, ‘An Evidence Based Scientific 

Analysis of Why masks are Ineffective, 

Unnecessary, and Harmful’. 22 

It has been reported that each surgical 

and N95 face mask releases more than a 

billion nanoplastics and microplastics. 23 

Although their pathological effects are 

unknown, these miniscule particles have 

been detected in the nasal mucosa and 

blood of mask wearers. 23,24 The possibility 

exists of titanium dioxide, a potential 

carcinogen, being inhaled from the 

synthetic fibres of face masks. 25 

By 2021, surgical and N95 masks were 

major components of eight million 

tonnes of COVID-related plastic waste. 26 

In landfills these plastics leach toxic 

chemicals and their disposal in the 

oceans leads to ingestion by seabirds 

and marine animals. The environmental 

and ecological degradation from this 

humongous mass of mask induced 

pollution is unfathomable. 

If masks were a drug or new surgical 

treatment, they would not be approved 

as their identified harms outweigh any 

tangible benefits. 

COCHRANE REVIEW 

The Cochrane Collaboration, based in 

London, England, is an independent 

not-for-profit international network of 

researchers. By adopting meta-analytical 

methods which limit biases, random 

errors and increases the statistical power 

of its conclusions, the Collaboration has 

earned a global reputation for providing 

the highest standard in evidence-based 

healthcare. 27 

Randomised trials, the gold standard 

for medical research, are a major focus 

of the Collaboration. Such a trial for 

masks would consist of the subjects 

being divided at random into two 

groups: one with masks, one without 

masks, balanced by age, sex, and 

other pertinent characteristics. The 

Collaboration has been conducting 

meta-analysis reviews on physical 

interventions, including masks, to 

reduce respiratory viral transmissions 

since 2006. 

The latest review of 11 new and 67 

previous randomised trials involving 

a total of 610,872 participants was 

released in January 2023. 28 It is a 

comprehensive, detailed 324-page 

report including results pertinent to the 

H1N1 pandemic, SARS, and COVID-19. 

Significant findings are as follows: 

First, moderate degree of certainty 

that wearing masks compared to not 

wearing masks in the community 

makes little to no difference to the 

outcome of influenza-like and COVID- 

19-like illness. 

Second, moderate degree of certainty 

that wearing masks compared to not 

wearing masks in the community 

makes little or no difference to the 

outcome of laboratory-confirmed 

influenza/SARS-CoV-2. 

Third, moderate degree of certainty 

that the use of N95/P2 respirators 

compared to surgical masks probably 

makes little to no difference for the 

objective and more precise outcome 

of laboratory-confirmed influenza 

infection. 

Fourth, there were no clear differences 

between the use of medical/surgical 

masks compared with N95/P2 

respirators in healthcare workers 

when used in routine care to reduce 

respiratory tract infection. 

Fifth, there is a moderate level of 

confidence in the accuracy of the 

above findings; and lastly, potential 

harms of wearing masks were rarely 

reported and poorly measured. 

Accepting that the Cochrane Reviews 

are based on sophisticated statistical 

analyses of human behaviour, the latest 

review supports the results of previous 

ones that — with as much certainty 

as it is possible to have — masks and 

respirators provide neither meaningful 

nor observable benefits regarding the 

prevention of respiratory infections. 

IN SUPPORT OF THE COCHRANE 

REVIEW 

On 7 Apr 2023, St George’s Hospital 

London, released the results of a 

study which showed that surgical 

mask use made no appreciable 

difference in reducing hospital acquired 

COVID-19 infections. The results of 

this investigation was presented at the 

April 2023 meeting of the European 

Congress of Clinical Microbiological 

and Infectious Diseases. 29 

CONCLUSION 

The enthusiastic intuitive adoption of 

mask mandates because “they must do 

some good” ignored the effects of viral 

desiccation and size, dismissed the 

absence of any historical and scientific 

support, and disregarded their obvious 

harms. 

Mandating mask use must be 

supported by the highest level of 

evidence. This requires clinically 

derived substantiation that masks 

and respirators categorically prevent 

the transmission of respiratory viral 

infections. The recent Cochrane review 

demonstrates that such validation does 

not exist. 

Regulatory authorities must admit 

that any advantages that might accrue 

from masks and respirators are 

outweighed by many countervailing 

factors, the most important of which 

are their harmful effects and the lack 

of evidence that they are effective. 

They would not survive a risk/benefit 

analysis. Failure to appreciate these 

facts is indicative of the arrogance of 

those advocating mask mandates and 

their total ignorance of the scientific 

database. 



This understanding justifies a 

necessary reassessment of mask use 

in dentistry. Such a change simply 

demands that wearing a mask or a 

respirator must be a personal informed 

decision of the clinician. Once made, 

it must be respected by peers and 

professional organisations. DA 

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ABOUT THE 

AUTHORS 

Dr George 

Freedman 

is a founder 

and past 

president, American Academy of 

Cosmetic Dentistry; co-founder, 

Canadian Academy for Esthetic 

Dentistry; Regent and Fellow, 

International Academy for 

Dental Facial Esthetics (IADFE); 

Diplomate and Chair, American 

Board of Aesthetic Dentistry; 

and Adjunct Professor, Dental 

Medicine at Western University, 

Pomona, California. Dr Freedman 

is the author of 14 textbooks and 

more than 900 articles, and an 

internationally renowned lecturer. 

As an oral 

pathologist, Dr John 

Hardie’s career 

focused on hospitalbased 

dentistry in 

Ottawa, Vancouver, 

Saudi Arabia and 

Northern Ireland. This fostered 

an interest in infection prevention 

and control as it related to 

dentistry. He has published 

numerous articles on that topic 

and presented lectures on it 

and related subjects throughout 

North America, the UK, Europe 

and the Middle and Far East. 



Efficient layering for 

high-quality dental 

implant aesthetics: 

Case study 

A natural looking and aesthetically pleasing 

restoration can be achieved using simple technique 

and complementary materials. Master Dental 

Technician Marcio Breda describes how beauty can 

be created with ease on six implants using the highly 

translucent zirconia VITA YZ HT White and the 

universal veneering ceramic VITA LUMEX AC. 

CASE STUDY 

A 35-year-old patient was dissatisfied with the 

functionality and aesthetics of the full dentures 

in his upper jaw. The patient complained of 

the insufficient suction effect, which generally 

made him feel insecure in public and was 

accompanied by rocking when biting and 

chewing. As a result, he avoided hard foods. 

The denture teeth and the base of the full 

denture also appeared lifeless and artificial. 

The patient wanted a fixed restoration on 

implants that would give him security and 

age-appropriate aesthetics. After detailed 

diagnostics and a consultation, he decided 

on six implants and a superstructure made of 

zirconia and veneer ceramics that could be 

fitted individually and match the natural teeth 

in his lower jaw. The base tooth shade A3 was 

determined for the incisors in the lower jaw 

using the VITA classical A1-D4 shade guide. 

CLINICAL STEPS AND CAD/CAM 

After the insertion and healing of the implants, 

an impression with model analogues and an 

opposing jaw impression provided the basis 

for the production of a master model and 

its articulation in the registered jaw relation. 

The model situation was then digitised in the 

laboratory scanner Ceramill Map 400+. 

The construction was anatomically reduced, 

incorporating six GM Mini Conical Abutments 

with the exocad software. The zirconia 

substructure was finally milled from the zirconia 

VITA YZ HT White using the Ceramill Motion 2 

(Fig. 1). The highly translucent framework 

structure was intended to ensure natural 

translucency in the area of the teeth right from 

the start. 

INFILTRATION AND LAYERING 

After finishing, the dental parts of the framework 

were infiltrated with VITA YZ HT SHADE LIQUID 

A3 to match the base tooth shade of the lower 

jaw teeth. A corresponding infiltration with VITA 

YZ EFFECT LIQUID Pink was carried out in the 

gingival area for the basic reproduction of the 

gingiva. After drying, the framework was sintered. 

The washbake was done in the dental area 

with VITA LUMEX AC FLUO INTENSE sand to 

implement a natural fluorescence in the depths. 

Strong GINGIVA rosewood was used in the 

mucosal area for an initial reproduction (Fig. 2). 

The dentine cores were layered with more 

chromatic DENTINE A3 on the canines and with 

DENTINE A2 on the other teeth (Fig. 3). Next, 

anatomical cut-backs were performed (Fig. 4). 

On the incisors, the mamelon structure was 

reconstructed with MAMELON saffron (Fig. 5). 

The first enamel layering was done in the upper 

two-thirds with translucent ENAMEL clear to 

allow the mamelon anatomy to appear 3D from 

the depths (Fig. 6). 

Fig. 1: The stained zirconia substructure made of 

VITA YZ HT after sintering 

Fig. 2: The washbake with FLUO INTENSE sand 

and GINGIVA rosewood 

Fig. 3: The dentine core with DENTINE A3 on the 

canines and DENTINE A2 on the other teeth 

Fig. 4: Anatomical cut-backs were made after the 

layering of the dentine core 

Fig. 5: The mamelon structure of the incisors was 

reconstructed with MAMELON saffron 

Fig. 6: The first enamel layering was done in the 

upper two-thirds with ENAMEL clear 



After the first firing, the approximal areas were 

separated to eliminate tension (Fig. 7). This 

was followed by alternate layering of ENAMEL 

clear, ENAMEL fog and OPAL TRANSLUCENT 

opal-neutral (Fig. 8). 

After the second firing, the cutting edge was 

completed with alternating layers of ENAMEL 

fog and TRANSLUCENT smoky-white. The 

gingiva was then reproduced with a balanced 

mixture of GINGIVA grapefruit and ENAMEL 

clear (Fig. 9). 

After the third firing, only morphological 

corrections were made in the dental area 

Fig. 7: The approximal region was separated to 

prevent tension 

with PEARL shell, which achieved a ‘mother-ofpearl’ 

effect. A mixture of ENAMEL clear and 

GINGIVA light-rose completed the mucosal area 

(Fig. 10). After the last firing, the finishing was 

carried out with differently shaped, fine diamond 

instruments and rubber polishers (Fig. 11). A 

glaze firing with VITA AKZENT PLUS GLAZE LT 

provided the finalisation. 

HIGH-QUALITY AESTHETICS WITH EASE 

As the furnace slowly opened, details of the 

nearly finished work became visible. Teeth and 

gingiva appeared as a natural unit (Figs. 12-14). 

An anatomically preformed framework and the 

targeted colouring of the dental and gingival 

Fig. 8: Alternating layering of the cutting edge 

with ENAMEL clear, fog, and OPAL TRANSLUCENT 

opal-neutral 

areas were the basis for the successful 

reproduction. 

After only a few layers, it was possible to 

achieve a highly aesthetic result. This proved 

to be an efficient advantage, particularly in the 

long span restoration. The layered ceramic 

simplicity had created a no-frills and believable 

aesthetic quickly. 

CONCLUSION 

A ceramic veneering system should 

complement the simple process so that the 

dental technician’s skills can be optimised 

when it comes to natural beauty. Many in 

dental technology have had this experience: 

A small embellishment or too much creativity 

can take away the natural look of a restoration. 

The restoration can look less like a natureinspired 

work of art that blends with the 

neighbouring hard tooth substance to form a 

unit, but more of something that is artificial and 

superimposed. 

Thanks to new framework materials for the 

digital workflow, edentulous jaws can now be 

restored with all-ceramic implant prosthetics. 

Zirconia provides a stable and aesthetic base 

for veneering ceramics, which makes it easier 

to reproduce the beauty of nature. DA 

Fig. 9: ENAMEL fog, TRANSLUCENT smoky-white 

in the region of the teeth and GINGIVA grapefruit 

with ENAMEL clear in the gingival region 

Fig. 10: The correction firing was done dentally 

with PEARL shell and gingivally with GINGIVA 

light-rose 


Fig. 11: The restoration after finishing with 

diamonds and rubber polishing 

Fig. 12: The finished, glazed implant prosthetic 

work looked natural 

Master Dental 

Technician Marcio 

Breda is a specialist 

in dental ceramics and challenging 

aesthetics. Since 1989, he has been 

managing his own dental lab in 

Vitória, Brazil, and has authored and 

co-authored various international 

publications on the topics of aesthetics 

and implantology. 

Fig. 13: With efficient layering, a highly aesthetic 

result was achieved 

Fig. 14: The gingiva and teeth had merged into an 

identical unit 

Currently, he is a consultant for VITA 

Zahnfabrik in Latin America and director 

of the educational institution, Centro de 

Estudios y formacion. 




3D-printed crowns: Case report 

By Dr Michael Weiß 

INTRODUCTION 

Treating patients with permanent restorations 

in same-day treatments is now state-of-theart 

in many dental clinics. Modern 3D printing 

materials and quicker production times in 

additive manufacturing allow dentists to offer 

patients with highly aesthetic and definitive 

restorations in just one visit. Patients 

appreciate the time savings and simplicity 

in same-day treatment compared to a 

conservative approach, which involves several 

treatment appointments. 

Currently, subtractive procedures are 

predominantly used for the fabrication of 

dental restorations for same-day treatments, 

in which the required restoration is usually 

made of high-strength zirconium dioxide 

or lithium disilicate. However, additive 

manufacturing offers several advantages with 

highly developed 3D printing materials and 

decreasing production times. 

The cost-saving production of complex 

geometries with high precision in a short 

period of time in the additive process should 

be emphasised; with modern 3D printing 

materials, it is possible to produce definitive 

restorations. 

One material in this field is the ceramic-filled 

hybrid material VarseoSmile Crown plus. 

Its high mechanical stability and durability 

have been proven in numerous scientific 

studies. 1 Due to its strength, the material is 

more antagonist-friendly and offers better 

cushioning compared to high-strength 

restorative materials. VarseoSmile Crown plus 

is also characterised by high biological safety 

and good aesthetic properties. 

These new technologies enable dentists, 

in cooperation with the dental labs that 

supply them, to offer patients therapeutically 

effective, fast, and cost-effective tooth 

replacement treatments. The following 

case description illustrates the concept of a 

same-day restoration with 3D-printed crowns 

made of the ceramic-filled hybrid material 

VarseoSmile Crown plus. 

CASE DESCRIPTION 

A 52-year-old patient presented for a regular 

check-up appointment. The patient’s general 

oral hygiene was good but due to an existing 

root filling in region 46 and 47, there was a 

risk of fracture in the molars located in the 

masticatory centre (Fig. 1). In addition, there 

was no sufficient chewing function due to 

the lack of occlusal surface design (Fig. 2). 

Crowning of the teeth was therefore indicated. 

The patient wished to receive the final 

restoration as quickly as possible and without 

an additional appointment. It was decided 

to print the crowns from the ceramic-filled 

hybrid material VarseoSmile Crown plus for 

final restorations in the neighbouring dental 

lab immediately after the preparation of the 

affected teeth, and to place them on the same 

day. 

PREPARATION AND DIGITAL IMPRESSION 

The region to be treated was first 

anaesthetised. An intraoral scan of the initial 

situation was performed while the anaesthetic 

was in place. Teeth 46 and 47 were then 

prepared. A chamfer or stepped preparation is 

recommended for the selected crown material; 

the preparation was made in the form of a 

chamfer for this patient case. 

Fig. 1 Fig. 2 



As root canal-treated teeth are more 

susceptible to fractures, tooth 47 was restored 

with a root post and an adhesive build-up during 

preparation. To create a biologically wide zone 

between the gingiva and the crown margin 

and to prevent possible chronic gingivitis, the 

gingiva was remodelled using an electrotome 

(Fig. 3). Retraction cords were placed around 

the prepared teeth to displace and retain the 

gingiva from the tooth neck (Fig. 4). 

During the subsequent intraoral scan of 

the prepared situation, the upper jaw was 

scanned first. Before scanning the lower jaw, 

the previously placed retraction sutures were 

removed. An astringent retraction paste was 

applied for temporary additional retraction 

and hemostasis of the marginal gingiva and 

to drain the sulcus. After the scan of the 

prepared mandible, the final step of the digital 

impression was to take the bite. Up to this 

point, the treatment lasted approximately 

90mins. 

The data set of the intraoral scan was 

transferred to the dental lab without further 

processing so that the fabrication of the 

restoration could begin. The patient was 

allowed to leave the treatment room for the 

duration of the crown preparation. She was 

asked not to eat anything during the waiting 

time so as not to cause any irritation to the 

prepared teeth. 

WORK STEPS IN THE LAB 

The crowns were digitally designed with 

exocad software. The occlusal space 

available posed a particular challenge. For 

an anatomically and functionally correct fit 

of the restoration, it was necessary to fall 

below the minimum wall thickness of 1mm 

recommended by the manufacturer. 

The design of the two crowns and the creation 

of the corresponding digital images took 

approximately 20mins. After this, nesting took 

place where the objects were virtually placed 

on the build platform of the printer. A Varseo 

XS DLP printer was used. Once the required 

support structures had been correctly placed 

and planned, the print job could be started. 

Printing the two crowns took around 40mins. 

The printed objects were cleaned of residual 

resin in ethanol and polymerised in the 

BEGO Otoflash post-curing unit. When using 

VarseoSmile Crown plus, the printed objects 

should be blasted at a pressure of 1.5bar 

between the cleaning and post-curing steps to 

remove the ceramic deposits on the surface 

of the objects caused by cleaning in ethanol. 

This process was also considered in the 

fabrication of the two crowns. The blasting 

agent used was Perlablast Micro. 

Finally, the printed and polymerised crowns 

were individualised with VITA Akzent LC 

composite stains (Figs. 5 and 6). The finished 

crowns were delivered to the dental practice 

just 90mins after preparation. 

INSERTION 

Back in the treatment room, the crowns were 

first tried in. While an exact fit had already 

been achieved at the preparation margin, a 

check of the bite revealed the need for manual 

correction of the occlusal points. After 

correction, the occlusion was checked with 

Shimstock foil and found to be satisfactory. 

Fig. 3 

Fig. 4 

Fig. 5: VITA Akzent LC was chosen as the composite stains 

Fig. 6: A view of the completed crowns that took 90mins to produce 



Before insertion, the bonding surfaces of the crowns were conditioned 

with 3M Scotchbond and the crowns were then seated adhesively with 

3M RelyX Unicem. The dentist and patient were satisfied with the fit 

and aesthetic appearance of the restoration (Fig. 7). The patient could 

not spontaneously feel any difference between the printed crowns and 

her natural teeth. 

CONDITION AFTER SIX MONTHS 

Approximately six months after insertion of the restoration, the patient 

presented for another check-up. The crowns in region 46 and 47 were 

completely intact. They showed no noticeable wear, discolouration, or 

chipping, and the gums had healed well (Figs. 8 and 9). The check-up 

of the same-day restoration described above was therefore without any 

findings. 

DISCUSSION 

The use of additive manufacturing technology in combination with 

the VarseoSmile Crown plus hybrid material for the 3D printing of final 

restorations enabled the patient to complete an aesthetic restoration 

in just one day. The aesthetics of the finished restorations were 

impressive and comparable to a ceramic restoration. In this case, the 

aesthetics of the crowns were due to the combination of the optimal 

properties of the 3D printing material and the proficiency of the dental 

technician during the individualisation process. 

With the further development of 3D printing devices and the associated 

materials, a shortening of the production workflow can be expected. 

In the foreseeable future, it will no longer be necessary for the patient 

to leave the treatment room or the dental practice between the digital 

recording of the prepared situation and the insertion of the finished 

work. 

In the case described there was also a delay in the treatment 

procedure. The anatomical characteristics meant that the minimum 

wall thickness of the material recommended by the manufacturer 

was not achieved and subsequent manual correction of the occlusal 

surface was needed. Even with many restorative materials fabricated 

subtractively, the minimum wall thickness specified is rarely lower so 

that a corresponding complication would have been expected. 

Ceramic-filled hybrid materials for 3D printing of definitive dental 

restorations represent a new class of materials, the durability of which 

cannot be assessed in terms of strength alone. Numerous publications 

of in-vitro studies suggest excellent clinical performance of these 

materials. 

Fig. 7: A view of the inserted 3D-printed crowns 

However, due to the novelty of the material class, only a few 

publications on long-term clinical observations are available to date. 

The material used in this case report is currently the only known 

material for which one-year-data from clinical studies is available, that 

confirm the promising data from the in-vitro studies. 

This case report shows that same-day restorations using additive 

manufacturing and ceramic-filled hybrid materials are not only possible 

but can also lead to highly aesthetic results. Although available data 

from clinical research confirms the long-term stability of the restorative 

material, the new material class of ceramic-filled 3D printing materials 

remains the subject of further clinical investigations. DA 

REFERENCE 

1. Scientific studies on VarseoSmile Crownplus [Registration: Scientific studies 

on VarseoSmile Crown plus - BEGO 3D printing] 

Fig. 8 


Fig. 9 

Dr Michael Weiß successfully completed his dental 

technician apprenticeship in 1980. He completed 

his training as master craftsman in dental 

technologies in University of Münster in Germany 

before studying dentistry at the University of Witten/Herdecke in 

1986 and qualifying in 1993. After his residency in 1995, Dr Weiß 

founded his own dental practice ‘Zahnarztpraxis Dr. Michael Weiß’ 

in the technology park of the University of Bremen. He received his 

doctorate from the University of Münster in 1996. 


41


Best-practice in instrument 

reprocessing: The hygiene 

workflow in the practice of 

Dr Kayla Teh 

With a team of 16 staff and four treatment 

rooms, Dr Kayla Teh’s practice focuses on 

various aspects of dental conservation, 

prevention and aesthetics. To ensure a 

high quality of care and meet patient 

expectations, the practice places 

importance on a seamless hygiene 

chain for instrument reprocessing. This 

article outlines Dr Teh’s best-practice 

procedures, emphasising the importance 

of reliable instrument decontamination and 

patient safety. 

SYSTEM SOLUTION FOR INSTRUMENT 

REPROCESSING 

Instrument reprocessing is a critical 

procedure involving physical or chemical 

methods to decontaminate reusable medical 

devices, ensuring their safety for subsequent 

use on patients and handling by staff. The 

primary objective of instrument reprocessing 

is to safeguard the wellbeing of both 

patients and practice staff by effectively 

eliminating harmful microorganisms present 

on the instruments. 

To achieve comprehensive instrument 

decontamination, a series of essential steps 

must be followed. These steps include 

cleaning and disinfection, inspection, 

packaging, sterilisation, as well as 

documentation and approval. Adherence 

to international guidelines is paramount, 

as they emphasise the necessity for 

trained personnel to execute the entire 

instrument reprocessing process using 

closely monitored procedures to ensure 

reproducibility. These stringent requirements 

serve to enhance the health and safety of 

patients, users, and all individuals involved. 

Dr Kayla Teh’s practice has adopted a 

comprehensive system solution from 

German solution provider, MELAG. This 

solution integrates components such as 

autoclaves, washer-disinfectors, sealing 

devices, and software solutions into a 

single workflow. By utilising this solution, 

the practice ensures a streamlined and 

synchronised process for instrument 

reprocessing. 

At the heart of the system solution approach 

is a personalised experience for the practice’s 

patients. With the provision of a central 

contact, the practice gains the advantage of 

having a single point of contact to address all 

infection control questions, providing prompt 

and comprehensive support. Whether there 

are inquiries regarding device operation, 

maintenance, or troubleshooting, the central 

contact from MELAG ensures that the 

practice receives immediate assistance, 

thus delivering an efficient instrument 

reprocessing processes. 

Efficiency is a paramount consideration for 

any dental practice, and a system solution in 

the decontamination room can optimise costs 

and synchronise services. By harmonising the 

service of all devices in the decontamination 



room, Dr Teh’s practice achieves a costeffective 

approach to maintenance and 

support. Instead of managing multiple 

service contracts and coordinating various 

providers, the practice can rely on a single 

source for all their service needs. This 

not only streamlines the administrative 

aspects but also ensures that all devices 

receive timely and synchronised service, 

minimising downtime and maximising 

operational efficiency. 

Moreover, a key advantage of system 

solution lies in its process-optimised 

operating concept. The components of the 

system are designed to work seamlessly 

together, eliminating potential malfunctions 

and enhancing everyday practice. The 

coordinated approach of the autoclaves, 

washer-disinfectors, sealing devices, 

and software solution creates a smooth 

workflow that minimises errors, ensures 

consistent adherence to best practices, 

and maximises the reliability of instrument 

reprocessing procedures. 

Furthermore, the system solution from 

MELAG offers additional benefits: The 

integration of various components from a 

single source ensures compatibility and a 

unified user experience. The practice can 

rely on a standardised approach throughout 

the entire instrument reprocessing 

workflow, simplifying training, and 

enhancing staff proficiency. Additionally, 

the availability of comprehensive 

documentation and traceability features 

allows for easy compliance with legal 

requirements, enhances quality control, and 

strengthens patient safety measures. 

By closely following a standardised workflow 

with MELAG´s system solution, Dr Teh’s 

practice delivers optimal patient care and 

mitigates any potential risks associated with 

cross-contamination or infections. 

Step one: Preparing the instruments 

The first critical step in instrument 

reprocessing is proper instrument preparation. 

This includes collecting the used instruments, 

pre-cleaning them if necessary, and 

transporting them quickly from the treatment 

room to the designated decontamination 

area. Pre-cleaning of instruments from coarse 

soil and water-insoluble residues should be 

performed immediately after the instrument is 

used in the treatment room. 

To optimise the reprocessing outcome, it 

is essential that the instruments must be 

transported to the decontamination area 

as quickly as possible. Health and safety 

regulations require that instruments be 

transported in closed containers or trays to 

protect both the patients and practice team. 

In the decontamination room, plastic brushes 

are used to protect instrument surfaces 

during pre-cleaning, and ultrasonic devices 

may be used to assist in the removal of 

stubborn contaminants. 

Step two: Cleaning, disinfection, and drying 

The preparation step is followed by cleaning 

and disinfection. Automated cleaning and 

disinfection using a washer-disinfector is 

preferable to manual, chemical cleaning 

and disinfection in tubs. Manual 

disinfection is prone to error due to a 

number of factors, whereas a washerdisinfector 

ensures a reproducible 

and validated result through constant 

monitoring of parameters. 

The use of a washer-disinfector provides 

numerous benefits to Dr Teh’s practice 

team. One benefit is the increased 

efficiency it brings to the practice. By 

automating cleaning and disinfection 

procedures, the washer-disinfector frees 

up time for team members to focus on 

other important responsibilities and tasks 

within the practice, optimising productivity 

and workflow. 

In addition, the washer-disinfector reduces 

exposure to contaminated instruments, 

improving the overall safety of the 

practice team. By eliminating the need for 

manual handling of instruments during 

the cleaning and disinfection process, the 

risk of accidental exposure to potentially 

hazardous substances or pathogens is 

reduced. This promotes a safer working 

environment, safeguarding the wellbeing 

of dental professionals and ensuring their 

peace of mind while performing their 

duties. 

Once the automated cleaning and 

disinfection is complete, the washerdisinfector 

should perform an automated 

active drying process. This step is 

essential to prevent recontamination 

and corrosion caused by residual 

moisture. Ideally, instruments should be 

reprocessed in the washer-disinfector 

within six hours of use to prevent protein 

coagulation. Hollow instruments, such 

as ultrasonic scaler tips, handpieces, 

turbines can be effectively cleaned and 

disinfected using adapters on the injector 

rail of the base basket. 

Step three: Inspection and care 

The electronic system of the washerdisinfector 

ensures compliance with 

all required parameters for automatic 

decontamination. However, trained 

personnel must conduct a visual and 

functional inspection of the instruments 



after successful cleaning, disinfection, and 

drying. A magnifying glass with light can be 

used to facilitate the inspection process. 

Damaged instruments or those with altered 

surfaces should be identified and removed. 

Some instruments require the use of specific 

care products, and it is crucial to adhere 

to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

For hinged instruments and other moving 

parts, sterilisable and steam-permeable oil 

should be applied in accordance with the 

manufacturer’s specifications. 

Step four: Packaging 

Before sterilisation in an autoclave, 

instruments must be appropriately wrapped. 

This can be done by sealing them in 

sterilisation pouches using a sealing device 

or grouping them together in sterilisation 

containers. This step should be performed 

in a clean area of the decontamination room 

using approved products. When wrapping 

individual instruments in sterilising pouches, 

the following points should be considered: 

• Protective caps should be used on sharp 

instruments to prevent damage to the 

sterilisation packaging; 

• Hinged instruments need to be slightly 

opened to ensure proper sterilisation; 

• Sterilisation pouches should not be filled 

beyond 75% capacity and should not 

exceed a maximum weight of 3kg per 

package. 

Step five: Steam sterilisation 

The sterilisation process is systematically 

carried out only after meticulous cleaning 

and disinfection of instruments. Steam 

sterilisation at 134°C is the preferred 

standard procedure due to its low 

dependence on influencing factors. It is 

crucial to ensure that steam has access 

to all the outer and inner surfaces of the 

instruments. Instruments with complex 

hollow bodies, such as dental handpieces, 

should be sterilised in a class B autoclave. 

Class B autoclaves enable the sterilisation of 

both wrapped and unwrapped instruments, 

no matter their type and complexity. The 

fractionated vacuum reduces the air in the 

sterilisation chamber through repeated 

evacuation and steam injection. This process 

permits the sterilisation not only of solid and 

porous instruments, but also of complex 

hollow body instruments with narrow lumen 

such as surgical hand pieces. 

During the sterilisation process, sealed 

pouches should be placed on the tray with 

the paper side facing downwards, multiple 

pouches should not be stacked on top of 

each other to ensure effective sterilisation 

and a helix test body can be used for 

controlling the sterilisation result of hollow 

body instruments. 

Step six: Documentation, approval, and 

labelling 

The instrument decontamination process is 

completed by obtaining batch approval, which 

must be performed and documented by 

authorised personnel. This approval is based 

on the process parameters determined during 

decontamination, as well as the validation 

and installation reports. The approval of the 

steam steriliser involves documenting batchrelated 

tests and checking the integrity and 

dryness of the instruments and packaging. 

To ensure legal certainty and reliable 

traceability, it is essential to maintain a 

complete documentation of instrument 

decontamination logs and reports for a 

minimum of five years. It is recommended 

to store records for 30 years to mitigate 

liability risks. Digital data carriers can be 

utilised to facilitate long-term storage. 

Additionally, the label or batch number 

must be transferred to the patient record 

after instrument use to ensure complete 

traceability. 

Step seven: Storage of instruments 

Sterile instruments must be protected 

from recontamination during transport 

and storage. Therefore, the sterilised 

instruments should be safely wrapped to 

prevent recontamination. They should be 

stored at room temperature in a clean and 

dry location, shielded from dust. Careful 

handling is necessary to avoid damage 

and loss of sterility. It is recommended not 

to store individually wrapped instruments 

for more than six months. Seals around 

instrument storage cupboards’ doors 

offer additional protection against dust 

and external influences, preserving the 

sterilised instruments’ integrity. 

CONCLUSION 

Implementing a comprehensive hygiene 

workflow for instrument reprocessing 

is of utmost importance in maintaining 

patient safety and preventing the spread 

of infections in dental practices. Dr Teh’s 

practice executes stringent procedures, 

including: proper instrument preparation, 

cleaning, disinfection, drying, inspection, 

packaging, sterilisation, documentation, 

and storage. 

MELAG’s system solution, encompassing 

autoclaves, washer-disinfectors, sealing 

devices, and software solutions, supports 

Dr Teh’s practice with a comprehensive 

and coordinated approach to instrument 

reprocessing. The advantages of a central 

contact for instrument reprocessing 

inquiries, cost optimisation through 

synchronised device service, and a 

process-optimised operating concept 

underscore the effectiveness and value of 

MELAG’s system solution. In employing 

this solution, Dr Teh’s practice has 

enhanced their instrument reprocessing 

practices, ensuring better patient care, 

optimal efficiency, and adherence to high 

standards of hygiene and safety. DA 


USER REPORT 

All about the All-on-4 

The All-on-4 (AO4) treatment concept enables 4-6 implant fixtures to be 

placed into each jaw at one go, providing patients with a full set of teeth in 

a day. Dental Asia speaks with Dr Samintharaj Kumar, CEO and founder of 

Nuffield Dental where he teaches dentists on the procedure. 

From 16-17 Dec 2023, Nuffield 

Academy conducted a clinical live 

residency for students to gain the 

knowledge and competencies about 

the AO4 treatment procedure. The 

educational branch of Nuffield Dental, 

the academy brought its students 

through from the concept’s origins 

to surgical techniques and hands-on 

exercises to gain competencies in the 

method. 

First developed 26 years ago by Dr Paulo 

Malo, the AO4 treatment aimed to transcend 

conventional dentistry by offering full-arch 

restoration for patients grappling with the 

challenges of extensive tooth loss. 

The implant technique uses four implants per 

arch, where traditional implants use anywhere 

from 6-8 implants in each arch. In the long run, 

fewer implants would be more cost-efficient 

as compared to single dental implants. 

Moreover, its immediate restoration enables 

the treatment to be performed in one single 

surgery, providing an efficient and effective 

way to replace a full arch of teeth overnight. 

Dr Kumar was granted deep insights into 

the methodology, having trained at the Malo 

Clinic Lisbon in 2009 under Dr Malo himself. 

“Learning from Dr Malo was not just about 

acquiring technical skills; it was an immersive 

experience into his visionary approach. This 

training has been instrumental in shaping 

my expertise and philosophy in dental 

implantology,” said Dr Kumar. 

Dr Kumar at Nuffield Academy teaching students 

about the AO4 treatment concept 

jawbone. The fusing of the implant into the 

jawbone also results in a more convenient 

and longer-lasting impact for patients. Instead 

of having to remove dentures, AO4 implants 

function like a natural set of teeth that requires 

no sticky dental adhesive. In addition, AO4 

requires no bone grafting for many patients, 

which is common in traditional implant 

procedures. 

On the first day of Nuffield Academy’s training, 

students underwent lectures in basic surgical 

and prosthetic principles. They witnessed 

a live surgery for unimaxillary full-arch 

rehabilitation with immediate loading which 

covered the AO4 surgical in accordance with 

protocols from Malo Dental. 

As an affiliated clinic, the partnership 

between Nuffield Dental and Malo Dental 

has benefitted patient care by bringing 

world-class methodologies to the forefront 

of its treatments, where it has become a 

cornerstone of Dr Kumar’s practice at Nuffield 

Dental. 

adept in both the science and art of 

this procedure,” said Dr Kumar. “For 

our students, this association is not 

merely academic; it is an immersive 

foundation into the highest standards 

of dental excellence, providing them 

with a travelator that will accelerate 

their pace of developing their own 

practices.” 

Dr Kumar also believes that AO4 

treatment is profound where the 

emotional and psychological uplift patients 

experience is as significant as the clinical 

outcome, a sentiment echoed in patient 

satisfaction studies. 

“This full-arch restoration technique is not 

merely a dental intervention; it is a catalyst 

for renewed self-esteem and an enhanced 

quality of life, as documented by Brånemark et 

al. in their foundational work on the subject,” 

he said. Shortly after his training, Dr Kumar 

completed his first AO4 surgery on a family 

member who to date has no clinical issues 

and is enjoying eating what she was unable 

to before. 

The implants of the AO4 procedure are placed 

at an angle providing for increased contact 

by using the natural support of the patient’s 

“By incorporating the AO4 into our educational 

offerings at Nuffield Academy, we are 

nurturing a cadre of dental professionals 

Dr Kumar conducting a lecture 


USER REPORT 

“Imagine seeing the joy on a patient’s 

face when they get a full set of teeth 

in just one day — that is what AO4 is 

all about. It is not just about smiles; 

it is about giving people back their 

confidence, comfort, and a big part of 

their lives,” Dr Kumar added. 

On the second day of the training, 

students reviewed surgical cases 

and principles before learning about 

maintenance regime principles. They 

were also introduced to T-scans 

before a review case in Malo Dental’s 

protocol on maintenance appointment. 

The course concluded with a lecture 

and hands-on session for denture 

conversion. 

“The impact of such education is 

twofold: It not only elevates patient 

care to new heights by ensuring more 

practitioners can deliver this lifealtering 

treatment but also propels 

the dental field forward, setting 

new benchmarks of excellence in 

implantology.” 

Looking forward, Dr Kumar believes 

that the AO4 concept is poised for 

further advancements. 

“Over the next decade, we anticipate 

material innovations leading to more 

effective osseointegration. Digital 

dentistry will likely take centre stage, 

with precision planning and execution 

becoming more mainstream through 

technologies like 3D printing and 

digital scanning,” he said. 

The application of minimally invasive 

techniques is also set to redefine 

patient experiences, offering quicker, 

more comfortable recovery periods. 

Regenerative medicine promises 

new avenues for bone regeneration, 

potentially obviating the need for 

extensive pre-surgical preparation. 

The role of AI and machine learning 

in diagnostics and treatment 

planning is expected to enhance the 

personalisation and success rates of 

AO4 procedures. 

In practice and training, Dr Kumar 

preference for materials and 

equipment aligns with high standards 

of clinical excellence. For implants, 

he advocates for both high-quality 

titanium and zirconia due to their 

proven track record in osseointegration 

and biocompatibility, recommending 

brands like Nobel Biocare, Noris 

Medical and Zeramex. For prosthetics, 

he highlighted advanced ceramics 

and high-grade acrylic materials, 

particularly zirconia, as the offering 

for a perfect balance of durability, 

aesthetics, and patient comfort. 

“In my practice, these preferences 

stem from a commitment to providing 

our patients with the best possible 

outcomes. Using top-tier materials 

and the latest equipment, we ensure 

that each AO4 treatment is not 

just effective, but also provides the 

most comfortable and satisfying 

experience for our patients.” 

For equipment, Dr Kumar noted the 

use of advanced CBCT scanners 

and software for treatment planning 

further ensures precision and 

efficiency. Customised surgical 

guides, created with 3D printing 

technology provide accurate implant 

placement, minimising surgical time 

and enhancing patient comfort. 

Additionally, when addressing 

bone deficiencies, top-grade bone 

graft materials and membranes 

are essential for encouraging bone 

growth and implant stability. 

A critical component of the patient 

journey Dr Kumar highlighted is the 

attention to a patient’s bite. “I am 

unable to get the results I get without 

daily use of TekScan — this is a force 

sensor which objectively measures 

bite strength, symmetry and also 

adjusts for premature contacts,” 

he said. 

“During training sessions, I always 

emphasise the importance of these 

materials and tools. It is not just about 

teaching the technical steps of AO4; it 

is about imparting an understanding 

of how the right materials and 

equipment play a crucial role in the 

success of the procedure.” DA 

Dr Kumar performing a live surgery 

Dr Kumar believes that through such training courses, the dental field 

progresses forward as more patients have access to the treatment 



Advocates of digital dentistry 

from the lab 

Driven by the region’s dynamic healthcare 

landscape and the growing demand for advanced 

dental solutions, Modern Dental Group saw an 

opportunity to contribute its expertise to an 

evolving dental landscape and expanded its 

dental laboratory operations into South East 

Asia in 2018. Dental Asia speaks with Richie 

Leung, business director for 

Modern Dental South East Asia 

on its journey and outlook for 

the region into 2024. 

By James Yau 

Founded in 1986 in Hong Kong as a 

manufacturer and distributor of dental 

prosthetic devices, Modern Dental Group 

has since grown into a global portfolio of 

brands, including Labocast, Permadental and 

Elysee Dental in Western Europe, Yangzhijing 

in China, Modern Dental USA in the US, and 

Southern Cross Dental in Australia. 

The group entered the South East Asian 

market in 2018 with the establishment of 

subsidiaries in Singapore, Malaysia and 

Thailand. Currently, the group has its dental 

labs in Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and 

newly established sites in Vietnam with the 

support of over 4,000 dental technicians 

from its centralised production sites in China 

and Vietnam to fulfil local needs and reduce 

production lead time to any urgent cases. 

Over the past five years, Modern Dental 

Group’s journey in South East Asia has 

been marked by strategic collaborations, 

technological innovation and a commitment 

to elevating dental care standards. 

“We have forged strong partnerships with 

dental professionals, clinics and institutions, 

aiming to provide them with state-of-the-art 

laboratory products and advanced dental 

solutions. The journey has been characterised 

by continuous learning and a dedication to 

excellence,” said Leung. 

A GLOBAL HUB FOR DENTAL 

TECHNICIANS 

Serving over 25 countries and 30,000 

downstream customers globally, quality 

control is key in production to ensure its dental 

prostheses meet the mark for a wide market. 

The coupling of in-house technicians and 

larger production facilities enables regional 

and local manufacturing teams to work 

together effectively. 

The direct presence of skilled technicians 

creates a dynamic environment where 

expertise is actively applied and shared; their 

immediate access allows for real-time problemsolving, 

contributing to a responsive and 

adaptive knowledge base. The collaborative 

environment created also encourages 

customisation, innovation, and experimentation 

with new techniques. Quality assurance is 

achieved while being able to support mass 

demand from all corners of the world. 

“This cohesive in-house team promotes 

efficient workflows and a positive workplace 

culture. We can rely on our main production 

site in Dongguan, China to provide 

worldclass products without capacity 

issues. Overall, managing in-house dental 

technicians transforms our lab into a vibrant 

knowledge centre, enhancing craftsmanship 

and generating positive ripple effects across 

our operations,” said Leung. 

In addition, the group employs various 

mechanics to ensure quality control in its 

production process. The establishment of 

feedback loops from end-users and dental 

professionals to continuously improve 

processes and product quality. This further 

helps the manufacturing in regularly 

reviewing and updating quality control 

processes to incorporate improvements and 

innovations. The use advanced technologies 

also ensure precision and consistency during 

the production process. 

“By incorporating these measures, we can 

confidently assure the quality of our dental 

prostheses, meeting the demands of a 

diverse market with reliability and excellence. 



We pride ourselves on our ability to efficiently 

meet the needs of a global customer base, 

ensuring seamless operations and exceptional 

service on a large scale,” Leung added. 

In the labs at Modern Dental Group, the 

digital dentistry revolution is embraced. 

Advanced CAD/CAM systems and 3D imaging 

and printing solutions are sought after as 

“practical technologies” to elevate precision 

and efficiency in its production processes. 

Collaborations with reputable brands is 

a cornerstone of Modern Dental Group’s 

approach from whose solutions become 

integral components of its technology arsenal. 

The group’s collaborations with intraoral 

scanner brands as well as its own Eletra 

brand are viewed as more than just tools, 

but as “eyes” which provide accuracy and 

customisation of its dental prostheses. 

“We can happily say goodbye to messy 

traditional moulds and hello to a streamlined, 

patient-friendly experience by utilising intraoral 

scanners. It is not just about capturing images; 

it is about providing dental professionals 

with the tools they need for precise treatment 

planning and execution,” said Leung. 

A collaboration with 3D printer brands plays 

a crucial role in Modern Dental Group’s 

manufacturing process. From design to 

printing to clinical work, the end-to-end 

process can transform the design into a 

finished product quickly, providing a simple 

and economical method to improve the 

efficiency and treatment time. The Form Auto 

hardware extension automatically removes 

finished parts and starts the next print 

without the need for operator interaction, 

enabling 24/7 3D printing with no printer 

downtime. 

“This scales capacity with demand and make 

production quicker and more affordable. 

It definitely shows how adopting digital 

technologies helps in costs, efficiency and 

production capacity of a dental lab,” 

Leung added. 

Looking ahead, the group is excited to 

offer its own technology by integrating its 

own clear aligner, TrioClear with 3D facial 

scanner. The integration offers recording from 

multiple angles simultaneously in reportedly 

“under half a second”. Facial scanners can 

reconstruct smiles into realistic 3D data and 

provide a suitable solution for digital smile 

line design instantly and accurately. It can 

also realise clinical ideas. 

The results of stereoscopic scans are used for 

aesthetic and complex oral repair treatments 

such as dental correction, dental implantation 

and oral reconstruction. For Leung, the 

integration is a “game-changer” which 

combines clear aligners with facial scanning 

seamlessly to simplify clinic workflows and 

ensures a smooth and effective patient 

treatment experience. 

“The integration of facial scanners, intraoral 

scanners and 3D printers into our workflow 

is not just about staying on trend, it is 

about tangible advantages. Efficiency is 

the immediate gain — quicker turnarounds 

mean happier patients and more streamlined 

processes for dental professionals.” 

DIGITAL ADVOCATES 

In South East Asia, Leung observes some key 

trends and developments that are shaping the 

landscape. 

One significant influence is the increasing 

adoption of digital dentistry practices. More 

dental professionals are embracing digital 

technologies, such as intraoral scanners, 

3D facial scanners and 3D printing. This 

shift towards digital solutions streamlines 

processes to improve efficiency and enhance 

precision allowing for more personalised and 

accurate treatments. 

Likewise for manufacturers, the ongoing 

advancements in digital dentistry solutions 

will influence the supply chain of dental 

prostheses products. Leung highlighted a 

notable shift towards increased efficiency 

and speed to provide quicker delivery times. 

The precision and customisation capabilities 

offered by advanced digital tools are set to 

meet the surging demand for personalised 

dental prostheses. 

“What stands out to me is the potential for 

decentralised manufacturing, facilitated by the 

seamless electronic transmission of digital 

files, allowing for localised production to cater 

to specific regional needs,” Leung said. 

An extensive pool of dental technicians and production facilities provides a knowledge base which is 

shared across Modern Dental Group’s regional and international manufacturing network 

Furthermore, Leung points out that the 

impact of digital dentistry is not just about 

hardware but also on a strong emphasis on 

collaboration and interoperability to create 

a connected supply chain. The increasing 

adoption of additive manufacturing, 3D 

printing and laser sintering, will revolutionise 

traditional production methods, introducing a 

more agile and resource-efficient approach. 



Recognising such developments, Leung is 

assured to stay ahead of the curve by taking 

the lead as opposed to simply following 

trends: “Digital dentistry is not just a fancy 

direction for us; it is what we are all about. 

We are convinced that blending digital tools 

makes everything more accurate and efficient, 

leading to better results for patients.” 

Navigating these changes, it introduces 

a need for technicians to manage these 

technologies effectively. To back this belief, 

the group organises educational clubs 

and courses focused on digital dentistry 

where dental professionals receive handson 

exposure to the latest technologies and 

techniques. 

“Education and training programmes are 

paramount to equip dental professionals 

with the requisite skills, ensuring they 

remain at the forefront of technological 

advancements. However, it is important to 

acknowledge that the proliferation of digital 

tools might affect manual labour employment 

in the industry, necessitating thoughtful 

strategies for workforce transitions and 

reskilling initiatives,” said Leung. 

One trend Leung is excited by is the 

integration of different digital tools like 

intraoral scanners and 3D printers for a 

smoother workflow. “It is like a tech duet, 

making everything more connected and 

efficient in the dental world.” 

Another example is the advancement in 

facial scanning, that can cope with growing 

demands from patients requesting a better 

visualisation of their treatment results, from 

clear aligner treatment, to smile design and 

full-mouth aesthetic makeovers. “As digital 

dentistry advocates, we are stoked to be right 

in the middle of this change. Our study clubs 

and courses shout out our commitment to 

helping South East Asia’s dental professional 

rock the digital era.” 

In the next five years, the group is focused 

on strengthening its brand and making 

Modern Dental Group more recognisable in 

the South East Asia market, offering dental 

professionals in the region the best digital 

dentistry solutions with broader geographic 

coverage. With advancements in technology 

associated in the 

manufacturing 

process, Leung sees 

more opportunities 

across regions 

to reach a larger 

audience. Leung is 

on the outlook for 

potential partnerships 

and acquisitions 

with local dental 

professionals or 

acquiring existing 

dental labs to 

establish Modern 

Dental Group in new 

markets. 

“We think that this 

approach lets us 

benefit from the local 

expertise and patient base of established 

practices. Overall, our goal is to provide better 

and more comprehensive services to all 

customers in the region,” Leung said. 

Set on expanding its business in South East 

Asia, Leung recognises several challenges 

along the way. Regulatory compliance poses 

a complex task, considering the unique dental 

regulations and licensing requirements in 

each country. 

“Navigating through these legal frameworks 

and ensuring adherence to local laws is a 

time-consuming yet crucial aspect of our 

strategy. Additionally, access to skilled 

staff, especially in areas with a shortage of 

qualified practitioners, is another challenge 

we anticipate,” Leung added. 

To overcome these challenges, Leung is 

aiming to invest in training programmes and 

explore partnerships with local dental schools 

in the region. Moreover, Leung emphasised 

on a fundamental understanding and meeting 

the diverse dental needs and expectations 

across the region. 

“Our approach involves adapting 

our services to cater to local market 

demands, offering specialised 

treatments, accommodating cultural 

preferences and providing affordable 

options to different socioeconomic 

Behind the scenes at 

Modern Dental Group, 

an embrace and belief in 

digital dentistry is taking 

the group in new directions 

segments. Through a pragmatic approach, we 

aim to navigate these challenges successfully 

and contribute meaningfully to the South East 

Asia dental landscape,” said Leung. 

“I would say the digital transformation 

in dentistry holds immense promise, 

but a nuanced approach is essential. As 

technology evolves, so must the skills of 

dental technicians and the industry should 

proactively address the potential impact 

on employment, striving for a harmonious 

integration of digital advancements with the 

expertise and craftsmanship of 

skilled professionals.” DA

IN DEPTH WITH 

Why customise the dental 

scaffold for alveolar height 

augmentation? 

Traditionally, customising a titanium mesh for alveolar 

height augmentation involves a lengthy process of 3D 

metal printing. This requires extended communication 

between the surgeon and the designer, and a delivery time 

of 6-9 weeks. Osteopore’s Digital Surgical Dentistry (DSD) 

system aims to provide clinicians with the flexibility to 

customise dental scaffolds chair-side during surgery, all 

within the same day as the patient’s visit. 

Singaporean dental 3D printing company Star3D 

Materials Development Company, collaborates 

with Osteopore International as both homegrown 

companies seek to advance digital dentistry 

solutions. Together, Osteopore and Star3D aim to 

reduce the wait time to treat jawbone resorption 

with factory customised titanium mesh from 

6-9 weeks to a same-day treatment. Leveraging 

Osteopore’s expertise in regenerative biomimetic 

scaffolds, the collaboration introduces the DSD 

System, enhancing surgical procedures and 

optimising patient outcomes. 

The DSD system encompasses the 3D3 Mini 

2 printer, Osteomesh, and a water bath. This 

system solution is designed to follow a five-step 

process starting from printing of the patient’s 

model, to sterilising, shaping and trimming the 

Osteomesh, before trying it in and inserting the 

material into the patient. 

Such outcomes are achieved in three key areas. 

First, surgical procedures are streamlined as 

pre-moulding of the Osteomesh allows for sameday 

treatments and reduces the operation time. 

Next, the precision in customisation minimises 

soft tissue disruption by avoiding several trials 

of inserting the mesh. Last, patient comfort is 

elevated as the DSD System reduces the duration 

of mouth opening. 


IN DEPTH WITH 

3D3 Mini 2 printer 

The 3D3 Mini 2 model SLA 3D printer 

is designed to develop precise 

patient models. Its specifications 

include a 4k resolution to achieve 

anatomical accuracy with clarity and 

a capability to print fine layers at 

50μm per layer to capture intricate 

features precisely. Furthermore, the 

printer features a built-in light cure 

box for streamlined post-print curing, 

and a double guide rail system for 

steady performances. 

Efficient speed settings provide 

a balance between speed and 

accuracy, and the printer can 

accommodate complex anatomies 

with a 90mm print height. It comes 

with a one-year warranty period, 

supports .STL files, and connects via 

LAN, wifi. 

Moreover, the DSD System 

includes a post-curing station that 

complements the 3D3 Mini 2 printer. 

The station tailors curing times 

with intervals of 1min, ranging from 

5-60mins. It also provides water and 

air curing methods to suit specific 

needs, with a wavelength of 405nm. 

Preparation of Osteomesh 

At the heart of the system lies 

the Osteomesh — a semi-flexible, 

bioresorbable mesh engineered 

to provide dimensional retention 

and graft material support. This 

innovation offers predictable shape 

and volume of regenerated bone 

tissue in guided bone regeneration. 

Its preparation follows three steps. 

Sizing of defect: Select the suitable 

size of Osteomesh, remove from 

single wrap sterile packaging and 

place in dry sterile bowl. 

Trimming: Using a pair of 

sterile surgical scissors, trim 

Osteomesh to the desired shape. 

It is recommended to completely 

remove the borders of the mesh. 

Moulding: Warm up sterile saline to 

the appropriate temperature in the 

water bath for moulding. 

Immerse Osteomesh for 

approximately 10secs to make 

it more malleable. Using the 

sterile model as a guide, contour 

and form the Osteomesh in the 

desired vertical and horizontal 

measurements for approximately 

5secs. Remove Osteomesh from 

the warm saline while holding it in 

its new shape for another 10secs. 

Repeat step until desired shape is 

formed. Refer to the table for the 

appropriate temperature. 

Mesh thickness Temperature (°C) 

(mm) 

1.25 50 

The water bath ensures the 

Osteomesh achieves the ideal 

consistency. It is recommended to 

place a sterile beaker or a sterile 

polyethylene bag or sheet in the 

water bath machine before pouring 

the sterile saline solution. 

FINAL STEPS 

Having sterilised the model and 

prepared the Osteomesh, it can 

be tried-in onto the patient’s 

model crafted by the 3D3 Mini 2 

printer. This allows for precise 

customisation before the surgery. 

Three print platform sizes: 

i) 140mm*80mm 

ii) 80mm*80mm 

iii) 50mm*50mm 

Dimensions: 

261mm(W) x 322mm(D) x 420mm(H) 

Weight: 13kg 

Curing size: 180 x 100mm 

Dimensions: 

220mm(W) x 220mm(L) x 325mm(H) 

Weight: 5.5kg 

Next, the Osteomesh can be 

inserted into the patient to complete 

the procedure. 

Following the five-step process, 

the three components within the 

DSD system aim to revolutionise 

alveolar height augmentation. 

This is achieved through 

Osteopore’s approach towards 

bone regeneration which can be 

completed within a single day with 

precision and customisation for 

enhanced patient outcomes and 

streamlined surgical procedures. DA 


51

IN DEPTH WITH 

New capabilities and fully digital 

workflows with IBT Flex Resin 

Formlabs Dental materials portfolio sees a new addition with the IBT Flex 

Resin for 3D printed indirect bonding trays and direct composite restoration 

guides. Together with the Form 3B+ stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer, IBT 

Flex Resin can enable dentists, orthodontists, and dental lab technicians to 

improve clinical outcomes and deliver better results in less time. 

In what is said to be a first-of-its-kind capability for digital dentistry, 

dental professionals can use IBT Flex Resin to 3D print direct 

composite restoration guides to assist in the build-up of single units 

to full smile designs. Compared with traditional approaches, using a 

3D printed guide improves consistency and reduces procedure time 

and cost. 

IBT Flex Resin is biocompatible, FDA registered, and CE marked 

according to the EU MDR, and manufactured in the US at Formlabs’ ISO 

13485 certified facility for dental and medical materials development 

and manufacturing. IBT Flex Resin can be used in Formlabs Form 3B/+ 

and Form 3BL resin 3D printers. 

The new resin aims to provide an upgrade on traditional approaches to 

deliver cost-savings and more efficient workflows 

Furthermore, with IBT Flex Resin, dental professionals can 3D print 

flexible, translucent indirect bonding trays for bracket placement that 

save time and deliver consistent and predictable outcomes. 

while minimising the risk of error. Indirect bonding trays can be printed 

in IBT Flex Resin at the 100µm layer height quickly and accurately. 

For both indications, the strength, flexibility, tear resistance, and clarity 

of the new resin enable dental professionals to operate with efficiency 

and confidence. Its elongation reduces worry on intraoral breakage 

or tearing. Teams can also integrate IBT Flex Resin into their in-house 

digital workflow, with its quick print and post-process times. 

Chair time for full mouth, individual bracket 

cementation 

Chair time for full mouth, indirect bonding tray 

cementation 

40-60mins 

10-20mins 

Property IBT Flex Resin Other 3D-printed indirect 

bonding resins 

Shore hardness 77-80A 89-95A 

Elongation (%) 135

IN DEPTH WITH 

of indirect bonding. As an accurate material with optimal clarity, IBT 

Flex Resin enables orthodontists to avoid bond failures and minimises 

rework. 

“IBT Flex Resin is an enhanced material that provides a higher quality 

of flexibility and translucency in comparison with other indirect bonding 

materials we have used. IBT Flex Resin provides superb accuracy and 

fit of the brackets. Providers can be confident it will deliver an excellent 

indirect bonding experience for their team members and patients. The 

workflow from beginning to end is effortless and will leave an overall 

lasting impression,” said Patricia Mitchell, digital specialist at Alvetro 

Orthodontics, on the resin’s impact. Based Sidney, Ohio, the clinic relies 

on the Form 3B+ and Form Auto for producing models and various 

appliances to treat over 120 patients a day. 

NEW CAPABILITIES IN DIRECT COMPOSITE RESTORATION 

GUIDES 

Printed at a 50µm layer height, the new capability of IBT Flex 

Resin in 3D printing direct composite restoration guides displays a 

good surface finish and reduces the time needed for polishing. A 

streamlined and fully digitised workflow produces a guide with optimal 

transparency, flexibility, and fit, allowing dentists to focus on the 

aesthetics and performance. 

According to Formlabs, the digital production of 3D printed direct 

composite restoration guides provides several advantages compared 

to the traditional production where clear polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) is 

used: 

The traditional workflow requires printing a model with the ideal design 

or wax-up which is later used to fabricate the silicone index upon. The 

ability to 3D print the guide directly eliminates the model production as 

a whole. 

As fewer steps are required, it reduces the possibilities of losing details 

or adding errors throughout the way. The directly printed appliance 

can accurately transfer the wax-up to the patient’s mouth based on the 

digital design already planned in the CAD software. 

Traditional clear PVS materials can range from US$80-130 for two 

cartridges of material which cost $10-20 per tray depending on the 

design. The cost for a full arch direct composite restoration tray 3D 

printed with IBT Flex Resin is reduced to $2-5. 

Fewer steps are needed with the capability of the resin in printing direct 

composite restoration guides 

Three-dimensionally printing the guides enables dental professionals to 

accurately design the extension of the guide and control its adaptation 

at the gingiva margin which is critical for the technique. Waste is also 

reduced as there is no need to cut the guides with a blade to adjust to 

the gingiva margin. Moreover, the thickness of the appliance can be 

controlled when designed digitally to ensure it is consistent throughout 

the appliance which is not achievable via the analogue workflow. 

Traditional silicone guides require the application of a separating 

agent to prevent the composite from adhering to it during clinical use. 

For trays used for guided restorative techniques, some composites 

do not adhere to the tray, providing a nice advantage compared to 

conventional workflows. 

“There is great fidelity between the reference and the printed guide, 

which results in the good reproduction of details and helps to 

avoid surface or occlusion corrections. Another advantage is the 

translucency of the material, which makes it possible to control the 

distribution of the temporary resin in the guide and avoid the presence 

of bubbles,” said Dr Edouard Lanoiselée, DDS. 

A Formlabs Dental key opinion leader and restorative dentistry expert, 

Dr Lanoiselée has been testing and using IBT Flex Resin for chairside 

permanent and temporary crowns and bridges, mock-ups or try-ins 

during aesthetic treatments, and moulds for restorations. 

“The printed guide is flexible, so it is easy to insert and remove. 

Furthermore, the composite does not stick to the printed guide so 

we can use it for different techniques with chemo-polymerisable 

resins such as temporary resins or photo-polymerisable restoration 

composites.” 

The indirect bonding 

tray workflow with 

IBT Flex Resin can 

reduce over 30mins 

in patient chair time 

Dentists might perform direct composite restorations freehand or 

use a variety of digital or analogue tools. With IBT Flex Resin, dental 

professionals can go directly from digital design to the 3D printed index, 

reducing costly steps that create rooms for mistakes. The 3D printed 

guide directly replicates a digital design with accuracy, whether a design 

is a single unit, a full smile, or anywhere in between. DA 


IN DEPTH WITH 

exocad introduces DentalCAD 

3.2 Elefsina software with over 

60 new features 

exocad’s new DentalCAD 3.2 Elefsina 

software aims to provide more 

intuitive workflows with over 60 

features designed to meet customer 

requirements and enhance workflows — 

from treatment planning to design and 

manufacturing. 

“DentalCAD 3.2 Elefsina delivers the 

exciting functionalities dental experts 

have been waiting for. The new release 

offers more automation, speed, and 

intuitive workflows from CAD to CAM,” 

said Tillmann Steinbrecher, CEO of 

exocad. 

Named after the current EU ‘European 

Capitals of Culture’, exocad has chosen 

the Greek city of Elefsina to bear the 

name of its the latest version of its 

CAD software. DentalCAD 3.2 Elefsina 

incorporates numerous time-saving 

features. The new preparation margin 

repair tool allows users to make the 

most out of imperfect intraoral scans, 

enabling them to fix margins and 

achieve acceptable results despite 

artifacts or holes in the scan. 

The addition of a new autoarticulator 

offers fully automatic consideration 

of dynamic occlusion. Also, a new 

integration of compact milling machines 

enables users to select their preferred 

block, initiate production seamlessly 

within their CAD software, and switch 

tooth libraries while retaining their 

previous setup. 

The ‘Bite Splint Module’ in DentalCAD 

3.2 Elefsina introduces increased 

automation in bite splint design. The 

‘Full Denture Module’ now includes 

a feature to rapidly copy an existing 

denture in a highly automated 

workflow, offering a faster and more 

cost-effective alternative to relining, 

leveraging recent advances in 3D 

printing. Additionally, dentures on 

ball attachments are now supported 

and an add-on module for the Ivoclar 

Ivotion Denture System along with a 

dedicated Ivoclar tooth library. 

New tools in the ‘Smile Creator’ module 

provide users with more predictability 

and better planning options. Users can 

design virtual gingiva for more realistic 

outcomes and create smiles based 

on patients’ natural teeth. The ability 

to adjust 3D rendering to the camera’s 

focal length enables a more precise 

photo-driven smile design. 

To enhance collaboration between labs 

and doctors, clinicians can now share 

external case-related files such as 

images, videos, and x-rays with exocad 

DentalCAD users through the MyiTero 

portal. The new bi-directional case 

communication allows DentalCAD 

users to share their 3D designs with 

the doctor for an efficient previewand-approval 

process. Within the CAD 

software, lab users can also validate 

margins with iTero intraoral camera 

images and visualise internal tooth 

structure with iTero near infrared 

imaging (NIRI) technology. 

Other highlights of the DentalCAD 3.2 

Elefsina include the ability to design 

post and core restorations so that 

a crown matching the core can be 

designed in the same step, a new 

‘Virtual Articulator’ support for Gamma 

Dental Reference SL, Kavo PROTARevo 

5B, with an anatomical ‘in-skull’ 

articulator visualisation, and an easier 

and more efficient process for titanium 

bases supporting variable screw 

channel angulation. 

exocad will offer hands-on 

demonstrations of the new DentalCAD 

3.2 Elefsina release at various 

upcoming dental exhibitions and at 

Insights 2024 taking place from 9-10 

May 2024, in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. 

The company’s global event will include 

opportunities for attendees to discover 

more about the latest Elefsina features 

from dental industry leaders and 

application specialists. DA 


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS 

Amann Girrbach releases Ceramill 

Map FX, new 3D desktop scanner 

Amann Girrbach has launched the Ceramill 

Map FX, a new lab scanner which aims to 

offer high precision with short scanning 

times and maximum versatility. 

The Ceramill Map FX scanner is said to 

operate with precision and repeatability 

while keeping scanning times short. To 

ensure safe and efficient processes, the 

Ceramill Map FX is fully integrated into 

the digital workflow and its compact 

dimensions allows the scanner to be 

integrated into lab environment where 

space is limited. 

Two comprehensive upgrade options allow 

the scanner to be expanded to meet the 

specific needs of the user. The basic version 

of the Ceramill Map FX provides the user 

with entry-level digitisation at an attractive 

price/performance ratio. With its 

modular design, the system is reportedly 

future-proof and can be expanded and 

upgraded at any time. 

In addition to basic prosthetic and 

orthodontic indications, advanced 

scanning options are also included in the 

enhancements. All variants offer high 

precision with short scanning times. For 

example, the optional HD scan achieves 

an accuracy of up to 4µm, and scanning 

options such as impression scanning or 

‘multidie’ offer maximum convenience. 

All common CAD/CAM systems can be 

connected via an open interface such as 

.STL and .PLY file types. 

“With the Ceramill Map FX, we have 

achieved an unbeatable combination 

of precision, economy and versatility: 

Without a doubt, the scanner will convince 

laboratories and practice laboratories that 

appreciate efficiency and future-proofing,” 

said product manager for Lab CAD/CAM 

Equipment at Amann Girrbach, Larissa 

Duarte. “The OneShot Scan can also be 

ideally combined with the popular Artex 

articulator system — for example, removing 

the rotation axis enables vestibular 

scanning of the articulator. Overall, 

handling is simple and intuitive. Owing 

to the integration of the Ceramill Map FX 

into the digital workflow, high process 

reliability as well as reproducible results 

are also ensured.” DA 

BUSCH launches COOL-DIAMANT 

and XTi-cut line of cutting instruments 

BUSCH has released the COOL-DIAMANT 

Instrument with optimised coolant flow, 

its product in the diamond segment 

which aims to provides more expedient 

preparation. The grinding performance 

reduces the treatment time needed, thus 

benefiting the practitioner as well as the 

patient. 

The many diagonal cooling grooves 

interrupt the grinding process up to 

seven times per rotation which provides 

additional support for the coolant spray 

and the removal chip. 

The continuous diamond coating even in 

the deeper grooves ensures great and easy 

grinding performance, facilitates removal 

thanks to the edge effect around the groove 

transitions and optimises the service life. 

COOL-DIAMANT Instruments are coated 

with pure gold. This fully covers the 

nickel bonding layer and enhances tissue 

compatibility. The COOL-DIAMANT range 

comprises 124 application-oriented variants 

in coarse, medium and fine diamond grit. 

Titanium is a difficult material to work with 

using conventional cutters. The penetration 

resistance can 

only be overcome 

inadequately, 

with an 

undesirable 

build-up of heat 

leading to oxidation on the surface of the 

material. BUSCH offers carbide cutters 

with XTi-cut for such applications. 

The instruments with cross-cut have a 

slight right-hand twist in the guide cutters 

and are characterised by deep chip spaces. 

In this way, the penetration resistance 

can be overcome with considerably less 

generated heat. Users can choose from 10 

instruments in different shapes and sizes 

specific to the respective applications. DA 



Vivos Therapeutics receives 

first FDA 510(k) clearance for 

oral device treatment of severe 

obstructive sleep apnea 

Vivos Therapeutics, a medical device and 

technology company specialising in the 

development and of treatments for sleep 

related breathing disorders, announced 

that it has been granted 510(k) clearance 

from the US Food and Drug Administration 

(FDA) for treating severe obstructive 

sleep apnea (OSA) in adults using the 

Vivos’ removable CARE (Complete Airway 

Repositioning and/or Expansion) oral 

appliances. Vivos’ CARE appliances include 

the DNA oral appliance, the mRNA oral 

appliance and the mmRNA oral appliance. 

With the clearance, Vivos is reportedly 

the first company to have approved and 

bring to market an alternative treatment to 

continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) 

or surgical neurostimulation implants for 

patients with severe OSA. 

This latest clearance comes 11 months after 

the FDA granted Vivos 510(k) clearance for 

the DNA oral appliance to treat mild-tomoderate 

OSA, and represents the first 

time the FDA has granted an oral appliance 

a clearance to treat moderate and severe 

OSA in adults, 18-years of age and older 

along with positive airway pressure (PAP) 

and/or myofunctional therapy, as needed. 

“Before this, severe OSA patients’ only 

realistic treatment options were CPAP, 

neurostimulation implants or other 

The Vivos DNA appliance (left) and mRNA 

appliance (right) (Image: Vivos Therapeutics) 

invasive surgeries. Today, they have what 

we believe is a far more desirable option 

that is very affordable and does not require 

surgery or a lifetime of nightly use and 

intervention,” said chairman and CEO of 

Vivos, Kirk Huntsman. 

According to the company, the statistically 

significant data submitted to the FDA from 

73 severe OSA patients showed that 80% 

of patients experienced an improvement 

of at least one classification or at least a 

50% improvement in the Apnea Hypopnea 

Index (AHI), and 97% of patients improved 

or stayed the same. The average treatment 

time was 9.7 months. 

Treatment results with severe sleep apnea 

patients were better than with mild and 

moderate patients. All pre- and posttreatment 

testing was conducted with no 

device in the mouth. The company further 

added that unlike other oral appliances 

on the market, Vivos’ proprietary CARE 

appliances gradually reposition the hard 

and soft tissues that define the airway, 

thereby opening it up and optimising its 

function and flow. DA 

Myerson introduces Trusana 3D Premium Denture 

System, exclusively distributed by Zahn Dental 

Manufacturing digital dental materials 

company Myerson has announced the 

launch of the Trusana Premium Denture 

System. The system is comprised of 

Trusana Premium 3D Tooth Resin and 

the newly released Trusana Premium 3D 

Denture Base Resin and Trusana Bond 

Denture Adhesive. 

The three products work together to create 

a denture with optimal physical properties 

and aesthetics. Created by a team of 

scientists and clinicians from around the 

world, Trusana resins won a RadTech/UVA 

Emerging Technology award for additive 

manufacturing in 2020. 

wear-resistance. Trusana also mirrors the 

beauty and translucency of a natural smile. 

“We are thrilled to introduce the new 

Trusana Premium Denture System. We 

dedicated years of university-based 

research to create resins for 3D printing 

denture teeth with exceptional wear 

resistance and optimal esthetics and a 

denture base with high-impact strength. 

Independent clinical and in vitro multisite 

studies have shown our patented 

3D resins deliver the requisite strength 

and toughness with minimal moisture 

absorption,” said president and CEO for 

Myerson, Jim Swartout. 

(Image: 

Myserson) 

and technology, and the ability to produce 

final digital dentures that maintain 

strength and the characteristics of a 

traditional denture. Together, the Trusana 

premium 3D resins result in a high-quality 

product for doctors while helping to save 

time, money, and materials. 

Trusana’s patented chemistry delivers 

an aesthetic, unfilled polymer with high 

flexural strength, fracture toughness, and 

The Trusana premium denture system is 

designed to provide dental labs what they 

are seeking in terms of innovative science 

Zahn Dental, the US dental lab business 

of Henry Schein, Inc, is the exclusive 

distributor of Trusana resins. DA 



Carbon introduces 

three new resins to 

its platform 

Carbon has announced the 

release of three resins on its 

platform — Pac-Dent Rodin 

Sculpture, Desktop Health 

Flexcera Base, and Keystone 

KeyGuard. The launch is 

part of Carbon’s initiative 

(Image: Carbon, Desktop Health, 

Keystone and Pac-Dent) 

to facilitate innovation in the dental industry, empowering 

labs to diversify their production capabilities and explore new 

applications. 

→ DISCOVER PERFECTION 

IN PROPHYLAXIS - 

THE NEW COMBI touch 

“With the introduction of these new resins, dental labs can look 

forward to improving their workflow efficiency and product 

offerings while providing customers with the latest in dental 

care advancements,” said co-founder and office of the CEO, 

Phillip DeSimone. “Each resin will unlock new opportunities for 

dental labs and further highlight Carbon’s unwavering resolve 

to drive dental industry innovation via advanced, best-in-class 

resins.” 

→ ultra-gentle prophylaxis 

→ ergonomic handling 

→ made in Italy 

→ 40 years experience 

Pac-Dent Rodin Sculpture Resin: Developed for modern dental 

restorations, the Pac-Dent Rodin Sculpture Resin introduces a 

new all-on-x solution for long-term provisionals on the Carbon 

platform for precision, aesthetics, and strength. This resin is 

the first in Carbon’s lineup that is FDA 510k-cleared for all-on-x 

temporary dental appliances, offering a nanohybrid ceramic 

formulation for lifelike permanent restorations. Additionally, 

it is reportedly the first permanent crown material to contain 

over 50% ceramic filler, meeting requirements for updated ADA 

insurance code reimbursements D2740, D2630, and D2644. 

Desktop Health Flexcera Base: Following the successful 

validation of Flexcera Smile Ultra+ restorative tooth resin, 

Flexcera Base joins Carbon’s portfolio as the latest innovation in 

denture base materials. This resin is designed for creating highimpact 

denture bases, combining optimal fracture resistance 

with good aesthetic quality. Both Flexcera Base and Flexcera 

Smile Ultra+ are FDA-cleared, ensuring that dental labs can 

confidently offer reliable permanent and temporary solutions 

to their customers. 

Keystone Industries KeyGuard: Keystone Industries brings to 

the Carbon platform the Keystone KeyGuard, a flexible resin for 

crafting high-quality, custom-fit mouthguards. This addition 

offers dental professionals the opportunity to design sports 

mouthguards digitally with custom variable wall thicknesses to 

provide comfort and protection to the end user. DA 

→ www.mectron.com 


59


Ackuretta upgrades ALPHA AI to 

simplify 3D-printing workflows 

Ackuretta has announced a series of 

upgrades to its ALPHA AI slicing software 

aimed at simplifying dental 3D printing 

workflows for users. 

With the new ALPHA AI Premium, users 

can now take advantage of auto-orientation 

and AI generated support building with 

upgraded features including three new 

compatible applications — denture 

base, denture teeth, and removable die. 

These upgraded features are in addition 

to previously added compatible dental 

applications including hollow/solid model, 

splint, crown, bridge, and surgical guide. 

The upgrade also provides users the ability 

to access ALPHA AI on four devices at the 

same time. 

Furthermore, new users are now able 

to sign up for ALPHA AI Premium with 

a brand new 2-year subscription option 

matching the Ackuretta SOL’s extended 

warranty length available via Ackuretta 

Concierge. New users will now also get 

an extra month free after signing up for a 

1-year or 2-year subscription. 

By making orientation, stacking, nesting, 

supports, and .STL file export for nine 

compatible applications easier, ALPHA 

AI is said to increase the print success 

rate, thereby increasing productivity, 

time, and resource savings. Its capabilities 

and integration with the Ackuretta 3D 

Printing Solution also makes it easy for 

practitioners to delegate with no resource 

intensive design training needed. 

The company further cited ‘incorrect 

orientation’ as the cause of 75% of failed 

prints. ALPHA AI Premium aims to reduce 

this rate with its auto-orientation which 

allows users to orient an application, add 

AI-generated supports, and save the file 

in .STL, .I3DP, or .IBF format for export to 

their dental 3D printer. ALPHA AI’s workflow 

is designed for users to import their file, 

choose the 3D printer and resin used, select 

the desired layer thickness, before orienting 

and adding supports to the application, and 

then slicing it to be ready for printing. DA 

Pearlie White and NDCS unveils new mouth 

rinse, developed from research study on SARS- 

CoV-2 virus 

A study from the National Dental Centre 

Singapore (NDCS) on the efficacy of mouth 

rinses in reducing the SARS CoV-2 virus 

during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to 

the development of an antiseptic mouth 

rinse with anti-viral properties. The new 

product is named Pearlie White Defenze 

Antiseptic Fluoride Mouth Rinse and 

was developed by NDCS in partnership 

with Singaporean oral care brand Pearlie 

White, highlighting the innovation of 

public-industry partnerships which brings 

together medical research with commercial 

expertise. 

“Inspiration for this research first 

originated from my volunteer work at 

the migrant workers’ dormitory during 

the height of the pandemic in 2020. I am 

elated we were able to rapidly progress 

the study to achieve this unique mouth 

rinse formulation with the vast industry 

experience from Pearlie White,” said 

The proprietary formulation of CPC, zinc and 

xylitol provides the mouth rinse with its enhanced 

antiviral properties (Image: Pearlie White) 

Assoc Prof Jaya Seneviratne, principal 

investigator, National Dental Research 

Institute Singapore (NDRIS). 

Assoc Prof Jaya first conducted a 

randomised clinical trial in 2020 to study 

the efficacy of mouth rinses on reducing 

the salivary SARS CoV-2, which showed 

that Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) 

formulated commercial mouth rinses 

effectively suppress the salivary SARS- 

CoV-2 levels within five minutes of use and 

sustain for up to six hours after use. 

The alcohol-free antiseptic formulation 

contains a combination of anti-viral and 

plaque fighting ingredients, including CPC, 

fluoride, xylitol and zinc gluconate. It is 

also enhanced with natural ingredients 

such as echinacea, chamomile, cinnamon, 

honeysuckle, licorice, myrrh, sage, and tea 

tree oil. It is dermatologically tested and 

safe for daily use. 

Following the results of the study, NDCS 

partnered with Pearlie White to develop a 

unique formulation of a topical antiseptic 

mouth rinse with anti-viral properties. 

The formulation brings together expertise 

in oral health research and deep industry 

knowledge and experience. Assoc Prof 

Jaya and his team will be furthering their 

study with a clinical trial based on the new 

formulation. DA 


SHOW REVIEW 

Joint 37th 

IADR-SEA 

annual scientific 

meeting and 2nd 

International Oral 

Health Symposium 

hosted in 

Singapore 

From 22-25 Nov 2023, the National Dental 

Research Institute Singapore (NDRIS) hosted 

the Joint 37th International Association for 

Dental Research, South East Asia (IADR-SEA) 

Division Annual Scientific Meeting and 2nd 

International Oral Health Symposium (IOHS) at 

the Singapore General Hospital Campus in what 

is said to be South East Asia’s largest scientific 

dental conference. Under the theme ‘Applying 

Oral Research Excellence to Advocate Oral 

Health for All’, the conference saw an assembly 

of about 450 oral health researchers, scientists, 

and oral health professionals from member 

countries in ASEAN as well as international 

researchers from Australia, Sweden, Japan, 

Taiwan and Hong Kong to showcase their 

research activities, foster collaborations and 

expand their collaborative research network. 

The IADR was established since 1920 to 

promote research in all aspects of craniofacial, 

oral, and dental research and to encourage 

development of improved methods for the 

prevention and treatment of oral and dental 

diseases to improve the oral health of the 

public. 

Divided into five regions, the IADR-SEA is 

its South East Asian Division, with member 

countries including Cambodia, Hong Kong, 

Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, 

Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. 

The IOHS stems from a collaborative platform 

between oral health research institutes in 

Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and 

Sweden. 

The joint event was the first face-to-face 

meeting since the start of the COVID-19 

pandemic. It commenced with a series 

of workshops and a preview to a special 

issue of the Community Dentistry and Oral 

Epidemiology Journal. 

Panel discussion at IADR-SEA 2023. From left: Prof Hoang Trong Hung, Vietnam; Prof May Wong, 

Hong Kong; Prof Marco Peres, Singapore; Prof Callum Durward, Cambodia; Assoc Prof Waranuch 

Pitiphat, Thailand; Prof Edward Lo, Hong Kong 

At the official opening ceremony for the main 

conference on 23 Nov, guest-of-honour Assoc 

Prof Chng Chai Kiat, chief dental officer for the 

Ministry of Health highlighted the importance 

of collaborations in advancing oral care. 

“Oral health surveillance studies are crucial 

in providing quality data to enable effective 

policymaking and health system planning. 

Research helps us to further identify critical 

gaps in oral disease levels and trends. This 

includes knowledge about their aetiology, 


61

SHOW REVIEW 

impact, treatment needs, 

priorities, and management. 

Plugging these gaps 

through research helps to 

improve our health as a 

whole, while serving as a 

key driver for innovation in 

the delivery of quality oral 

care,” said Assoc Prof Chng. 

After the opening address, 

Prof Marco Peres, 

deputy CEO research and 

education, National Dental 

Centre Singapore (NDCS), 

set the tone for the joint 

event in his plenary lecture 

on ‘Achieving Universal 

Oral Health Coverage for 

All’. Prof Peres added the 

clause “is necessary but 

not sufficient” to the title 

of his lecture to frame 

and complete his view on 

universal health coverage 

as spoke of his strong 

support on the subject and 

highlighted areas in need of 

improvement. 

A panel discussion 

moderated by IADR-SEA 

Division president Prof 

May Wong followed where representatives 

from Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and 

Cambodia expounded on the current state and 

challenges of oral health in their respective 

countries. 

After the opening ceremony, the programme 

for the remaining days featured a line-up 

of over 60 local and international speakers 

in a series of workshops, lectures, and 

symposiums. 

The ‘Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) 

Research in SEA: Strength in Synergy’ 

workshop gathered clinicians and scientists 

interested in TMD research and the key leads 

of International Network for Orofacial Pain 

and Related Disorders Methodology (INfORM) 

in South East Asia. Singapore’s Dr Adrian Yap, 

Malaysia’s Dr Kathreena Kadir, the Philippines’ 

Dr Jonathan Fandialan, Indonesia’s Dr Carolina 

Marpaung, and Thailand’s Dr Phanomporn 

A workshop session on TMD research in South East Asia 

A ‘Lunch and Learn’ session where participants gathered in smaller groups over food 

where speakers provided insights on unique topics 

Vanichanon all spoke during the session 

which introduced the current concepts of 

TMD, its signs/symptoms, classification, 

aetiology, and identification. 

In other programme highlights, Laureate 

Prof Eric Reynolds, Centre for Oral Health 

Research, Melbourne Dental School, and Prof 

Paul Pronyk, director of Duke-NUS Center for 

Outbreak Preparedness (COP) gave plenary 

lectures on ‘Microbiome Modulation and 

Fluoride Activation by a Saliva Biomimetic 

Promotes Oral Health’ and ‘Evolutions in 

Global Health – what does it mean for oral 

health?’ respectively. 

Some of the key topics that were covered 

included universal oral health coverage, oral 

systemic health connection, microbiome 

modulation and periodontal disease, teledentistry, 

AI, orofacial devices, and digital 

dentistry technologies. 

The IADR also provided 

a platform to facilitate 

cooperation among 

investigators and the 

communication of 

research findings and their 

implications throughout the 

world. Two hundred and 

nineteen submissions for 

abstracts were accepted 

and displayed in various 

oral and poster sessions at 

the event venue. 

Tanyaphon Danpipat from 

Chulalongkorn University, 

Thailand won the first prize 

in the Hatton Award, Junior 

Category, for her submission 

on ‘Amino-acid Starvation 

and DNA-proteincrosslink 

Repair Affect Candida 

Oxidative Stress 

Susceptibility’. Winner of 

the Hatton Award, Senior 

Category, was Shuting Gao 

from The University of Hong 

Kong, for his submission 

on ‘Injectable Polyxylitol 

succinate-based Adhesive 

Hydrogel for Periodontal 

Regeneration’. 

Against a backdrop of the growing burden of 

oral diseases worldwide with 3.5 billion people 

afflicted, 1,2 the socioeconomic burden from 

direct costs such as treatment expenditures 

and indirect costs from lowered productivity 

due to absenteeism from work or school and 

reduced quality of life for those afflicted, can 

be substantial. 

The convergence of international dental 

researchers and oral health professionals at 

the Joint IADR-SEA/IOHS scientific meeting 

strives to play a role in fostering collaboration 

and continuous learning for impactful 

research to improve oral health outcomes. DA 

REFERENCES 

1. GBD 2017 Disease and Injury Incidence and 

Prevalence Collaborators. Lancet 2018. 

2. GBD 2017 DALYs and HALE Collaborators. 

Lancet 2018. 


EVENTS CAL NDAR 2024 

JANUARY 

13 – 14 

Global Dental Conclave 

Mumbai, India 

18 – 20 

The Saudi International Dental Conference 

(SIDC) 2024 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 

25 – 27 

International Congress of Oral 

Implantologists (ICOI) Winter Implant 

Symposium 2024 

San Diego, US 

26 – 28 

Malaysian Dental Association (MDA) 

SCATE 2024 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 

FEBRUARY 

6 – 8 

AEEDC Dubai 2024 

Dubai, UAE 

28 – 29 

10th World Dental Conference (WDC) 2024 

Bangkok, Thailand 

MARCH 

3 – 6 

Dental South China 2024 

Guangzhou, China 

8 – 10 

12th Borneo Dental Congress 

Sarawak, Malaysia 

14 – 16 

Expodental 2024 

Madrid, Spain 

14 – 16 

Dental Expo 

Auckland, New Zealand 

20 – 23 

ADX 2024 

Sydney, Australia 

22 – 23 

BDIA Dental Showcase - London 2023 

London, UK 

APRIL 

19 – 21 

IDEM 2024 

Singapore 

21 – 23 

DentalForum USA Spring 

Texas, US 

MAY 

2 – 5 

47th Asia Pacific Dental Congress (APDC) 2024 

Taipei, Taiwan 

3 – 6 

AAO Annual Session 2024 - American 

Association of Orthodontists 

New Orleans, US 

8 – 11 

IDEX 2024 - International Istanbul Dental 

Equipment and Materials Exhibition 

Istanbul, Turkey 

9 – 11 

International Team for Implantology (ITI) 

World Symposium 2024 

Singapore 

16 – 18 

Expodental Meeting 2024 

Rimini, Italy 

31 May – 2 June 

Famdent 

Mumbai, India 

JUNE 

7 – 9 

SIDEX 2024 

Seoul, South Korea 

9 – 12 

Sino Dental China 

Beijing, China 

13 – 15 

Implant Solutions World Summit 

Miami, US 

17 – 18 

DentalForum UK 

Alicante, Spain 

AUGUST 

1 – 3 

Vietnam Dental Expo 2024 – Ho Chi Minh 

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 

21 – 23 

Vietnam International Dental Exhibition & 

Congress (VIDEC) 2024 

Hanoi, Vietnam 

23 – 25 

Hong Kong International Dental Expo and 

Symposium (HKIDEAS) 2024 

Hong Kong, Hong Kong (China) 

SEPTEMBER 

8 – 10 

DentalForum USA Fall 

Florida, US 

12 – 15 

FDI World Dental Congress (WDC) 

Istanbul, Türkiye 

19 – 21 

International Congress of Oral Implantologists 

(ICOI) World Congress 2024 

Orlando, US 

OCTOBER 

10 – 12 

Dental World 2024 

Budapest, Hungary 

13 – 15 

DentalForum Europe 2024 

Sitges, Spain 

24 – 26 

31th EAO annual congress 

Milan, Italy 


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Dental Asia January/February 2024

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