Hygiene Pearls for Your Practice

By Joe Blaes, DDS

It seems to me that people are always asking for a power toothbrush that does more. I had a patient tell me the other day that she wanted a power brush that whitened her teeth. A few months ago, I would have laughed and said nobody makes one. Philips to the rescue! Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition is a sleek, first-of-its-kind, black-power toothbrush that whitens teeth in just one week. It provides all the great whitening features of the white version of Philips Sonicare DiamondClean, including better gum health in just two weeks and the ability to remove up to 7x more plaque compared to a manual toothbrush. The unexpected black color brings an instant cool to any bathroom counter. I now have an alternative power brush to recommend for whitening teeth and a lot more.

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition is the latest innovation that takes power toothbrushing to its most sophisticated level yet. The uniquely designed brush head is the first great feature – the diamond-shaped brush head has 44% more bristles than the standard-sized ProResults brush head, providing superior plaque removal and whiter teeth. The power handle features illuminated brushing modes that are selected by scrolling down with one button. There are five brushing modes: Clean – for a whole mouth clean; White – removes surface stains to whiten teeth; Polish – brightens and polishes teeth to bring out the natural brilliance; Gum Care – gently stimulates and massages gingival tissues; Sensitive – extra gentle for sensitive teeth. The brush is charged by induction while resting in a charging glass, and a separate travel case allows you to charge the brush via a wall outlet or a computer USB.

I can tell you from my own experience that this is one powerful brush! Each time my hygienist sees me, she is amazed at the condition of my gingival tissues. I have no pockets over 3 mm. Karen often comments that my gums look better than hers. How about that for a compliment?

Visit philipsoralhealthcare.com for more information.

from Ultradent Products, Inc.

In my office, sometimes we are faced with resistance when we begin talking to our patients about tooth whitening. Sometimes they just cannot afford it and other times friends have told them about products sold online or at the grocery store. Now Ultradent has come up with an alternative that you can offer your patients. It eliminates the cost of impressions, models, and trays. I have tried this product myself and found this new unique tray material offers an extremely comfortable fit and the overall experience is excellent. This new product is designed to give your office an option for those patients who demand a more affordable, convenient, and yet professional whitening result. This is for those patients who have found that the whitening strips or other products found in drugstores did not really give them the results they wanted.

Opalescence Go is the professional tooth whitening brand alternative to over-the-counter products. This product features on-the-go convenience with the UltraFit tray's superior adaptation that ensures the maximum amount of gel stays in contact with the teeth during whitening. The tray has molar to molar coverage, making contact with more posterior teeth. It provides safe, professional results with the Opalescence sticky, viscous 10% hydrogen peroxide (with wear times from 30-60 minutes) and 15% hydrogen peroxide, with wear times from 15 to 20 minutes). Just like its take-home product, Opalescence whitening gel includes PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride). Potassium nitrate has been shown to help reduce sensitivity. Fluoride has been show to help reduce caries and strengthen enamel. Together they help to improve the overall health of the teeth. The convenient prefilled trays can be worn right out of the package in delicious mint, melon, and peach flavors. The optimal quantity of gel ensures maximum results and can easily be brushed off after whitening. The sleek, attractive packaging provides stability, shelf-life, and eye-catching branding.

Visit www.Ultradent.com for more information.

Waterpik® Aquarius™ Professional Water Flosser (WP-660) is the easy and more effective way to floss, and the most advanced Water Flosser ever. It is clinically proven up to 50% more effective for improving gingival health vs. string floss and proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque biofilm from treated areas in 3 seconds. The Aquarius includes on/off water control on the handle and seven water-flosser tips. New pulse-modulation technology features a "Floss" mode for maximum interproximal cleaning, and a "Hydro-Pulse Massage" mode for enhanced gingival stimulation and improved circulation. The Aquarius also features a one-minute timer with a 30-second pacer to ensure thorough water flossing of all areas, an LED information panel, and a new, contemporary, compact design. There are seven Water Flosser Jet Tips, including three Classic Jet Tips, an Orthodontic Tip, a Plaque Seeker® Tip, a Pik Pocket™ Tip, and a Toothbrush Tip. For a limited time, dispensing offices that order six or more units will receive a $15 patient rebate attached to each box.

Visit www.professional.waterpik.com for more information.

To have Dr. Joe Blaes present his lecture, "Pearls For Your Practice®," for your study group or dental society, please call (866) 274-4500.