All the news you need to stay current with ALD activities.

Winter 2017 Issue
TOP
Actionable Insights from the World's Leading Laser Dentistry Experts
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
chairCOMMUNICATIONS CHAIR CORNER
By Dr. Steve Parrett, Communications Chair

I hope most of you have found the dental related news items we share with you through the ALD publications, to be helpful to you and the improvement of your practice of dentistry. We strive to provide the latest clinical and practice related information, not just laser updates.

I had a recent personal experience that caused me to draw parallels with my experiences in dentistry and becoming involved with lasers and the Academy of Laser Dentistry almost 15 years ago. I unfortunately experienced a 3-day bout of constant chronic hiccups. Non-stop! We all have had the occasional 5 minute or so case of hiccups; you get busy doing something then you realize they have stopped and you go on with life. However, it is hard to ignore them over 3 days! I tried all of the tricks, holding my breath, drinking water, swallowing sugar, all to no avail. I likened that to what most of us do in our day to day practice lives. We read about a new product or treatment technique that will improve our practices, so we give them a try. Wouldn't you agree, that every practice goes through a little 'hiccup' once in a while? The definition of a hiccup is a sudden involuntary contraction of the diaphragm. Sometimes our minor changes can stop the 'contractions' of our business plan and practice, sometimes they don't. I have attended most of the ALD annual meetings in my 15 years, and am in regular contact with members through my various contacts in ALD. I feel it has been one of my most important networks in dentistry, even though I have been active in ADA and AGD activities over those years as well. I feel my exposure to lasers in particular, and also my association with the dentists who use lasers in general, has kept me interested and involved in my profession. 

Back to my dreadful hiccups experience. I contacted a friend who is a local ENT and he immediately phoned in a prescription for me. Within 15 minutes I experienced relief from my torture! I only took one dose, so I have some left in case the demon hiccups return. I think the Rx for every general dentist who experiences any level of hiccupping within their dental practice is a regular dose of ALD, and you will prevent the minor setbacks and even see your practice and joy of practicing dentistry thrive. You will learn to do procedures and be able to help your patients in ways that you would have never thought possible. I feel a debt of gratitude to this organization and the people who are such a great part of it for improving my daily life in dentistry. If you are a member, but not very active, contact our executive director, Gail Siminovsky, to see if she can give you suggestions within the ALD organization that will help you thrive. If you are a non-member, contact her to see what benefits membership in ALD can make in your professional life.

EDEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT
ALD - A History of Values Sets Our Future
By Gail Siminovsky, CAE

As we begin 2017, my sights are set 16 months from now, when we will be commemorating the Academy of Laser Dentistry's 25th Anniversary, during ALD's 2018 Annual Conference and Exhibition. As I think about how we will celebrate, I pause to reflect upon ALD's journey as an organization over the years, under the leadership of our past and current Boards of Directors, and through my own 17-year tenure as Executive Director. 

Our organizational values firmly set the role of the Academy of Laser Dentistry to serve dentistry as the professional standard-setting society that we are. These values are the basis of our work with state regulatory agencies, dental associations, dental schools, the professional community, and our members. 

ALD's core values were set, 17 years ago, to guide our future direction and policymakin g. Back then with the help of the many voices of our constituents, we identified a beginning set of core values. Still, the summarization of the core values into 3 general values remains the same: Integrity, Innovation, and Professional Community.

In 2016, our leaders re-visited ALD's mission, vision and goals, and future direction. The Board will approve the ALD 2017-2020 Strategic Plan next April. In this Plan, we address the changing needs of professional environmen t, changes within our own leadership, and our needs as members, all the while upholding our 3 general values of Integrity, Innovation, and Professional Community. 

Our Academy's values are essential to our being. They help us to achieve our mission and organizational purpose, provide fundamental policies, and determine our future direction. They are central to developing and fulfilling our strategic plans. These core values are an integral part of who we are as an organization, and remain so as we begin planning our 25th Anniversary celebrations.

As any organization evolves, grows and matures, many changes occur. Our biggest  challenges include add ressing strategies to fulfill our mission, vision, and goals while keeping our core values ever-present. Revisiting programs, sun-setting what may no longer work well, and developing new ways to achieve our mission is challenging, to say the least. It is part of every organization's life cycle. As the economy has changed, ALD's financial position has changed, and the last five years 2010 - 2015 have been challenging for our small organization. Our current strengthening financial standing has not come without sacrifice. Evolving and addressing needed change is courageous and hard to do well. The real success is in adapting and navigating through the difficult times to brighter times. As is the case with most organizations, not everyone always agrees. Different opinions are voiced. Building consensus is a talent. I am happy to report we approach 2017 with renewed spirit.

Our current leadership has a strong sense of collegiality and we are devoted to working hard to become more inclusive, less rigid and more agile, more welcoming of new members, and more appreciative of our volunteers, all at the same time upholding our core values and providing more educational opportunities. We are expanding our reach by collaborating with other larger dental associations. We continue our representation on the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) Z136 for Safe Use of Lasers and its standards subcommittee SSC-3 Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care. We are expanding our relationships with dental schools, state boards of dental examiners, and other organizations. We have identified areas of member services that can be improved, and are working diligently to respond to our members' needs.

We have taken our pulse and we approach our 25th Anniversary Year with enthusiasm, courage, and commitment to our foundational core values. We are excited for our future and the future of lasers in dentistry. See you in Tucson in just a few short weeks!

ALD BOARD SETS NEW STRATEGIC DIRECTION board
By Gail Siminovsky, CAE

The ALD Board of Directors meets 3-4 times a year in formal governance sessions.  In November, the board met to set the 2017-2020 strategic direction of the organization. ALD professional staff was an integral part of the planning, and will be engaged in finalizing the plan for board approval next April. During the planning session, the leadership drafted and prioritized five strategic goals with supporting strategies and performance measures. The leadership also reviewed the organization's mission statement, values statement, SWOT analysis and critical issues. The 2017-2020 strategic direction will be announced during the General Membership Meeting in Tucson on April 7, 2017. See the ALD Core Values here

values
 
 
ALD INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS internationalrelations
By  Dr. Arun Darbar, Chairman

In 2016, ALD added 3 new International Study Clubs. The most recent is the ALD Canadian Study Club, affiliated with the Canadian Dental Laser Institute (CDLI), thanks to Dr. Marina Polonsky. Another is in the Philippines, thanks to Dr. Maria Judith Yap and Dr. Maria Noemi Pato at Dental Laser Centre East Avenue Medical Centre, and the third is in Egypt with Dr. Mahmoud Ahmed Kohail at the Arab Society for Continuing Dental Education (ASCDE) . The Gulf Laser Study Club updated its status to the Gulf Region Laser Chapter, thanks to Dr. Walid Altayeb. The Philippines Affiliated Study Club (ASC) has already indicated it will do the same. It's an exciting time!   

Beginning in October, 2016 and finishing in February 2017, the Gulf Chapter, with the British Academy of Implant and Restorative Dentistry (BAIRD), is conducting a 13-day, 6-modular program on advanced laser dentistry. Most of the invited speakers are ALD members. For the first time outside the United States, this program will hold the ALD Advanced Proficiency Parts 1 and 2. The ALD Education Co-Chairs are working on similar educational offerings in more ASC centers worldwide, showing ALD's commitment and dedication to its members all over the world.

In the coming years, ALD international expansion is expected to increase, as various groups have shown a keen interest. With the quickly approaching ALD 25th anniversary celebrations in 2018, international ASC's will be working hard to host a possible secondary ALD conference in the fall of 2018, with firm details to be announced soon. I am very proud that every International Relations Committee member has expressed willingness to help in this project to make it special and successful.
 
Happy lasering - it's amazing!
universityUNIVERSITY RELATIONS - THE START OF SOMETHING GREAT!
By  Jason Fluckiger,  D2 Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ
 
Midwestern University - Arizona Campus is excited and honored to begin looking into the formation of a student association dedicated to laser education. This new student organization is made up of students eager to understand the role lasers can play in their future career. Midwestern offers laser certification as part of its curriculum, and possesses soft and hard tissue lasers for students to incorporate in patient treatments. The student association is intended to provide students with additional opportunities to learn more about lasers by engaging in three main avenues: lunch and learns with experts in the field, hands-on lab experience, and visits to local dental offices incorporating savvy use of lasers.

The student association at Midwestern kicked off its first event/membership drive with a lunch and learn delivered by Midwestern's own Dr. Nancy Fitzgerald, with the meal provided courtesy of the ALD. Dr. Fitzgerald serves as an assistant professor at Midwestern, has a strong interest in laser technology and serves as an ambassador for student membership in the ALD. In her lecture, Dr. Fitzgerald accomplished the daunting task of providing a group of 137 students, made up of mostly D1 and D2 students, an overview of what lasers are, some of their indications and uses, and what we as a new student organization hope to engage in through our future events. Her lunch and learn was met with enthusiasm, with well over 50 (and counting) students enrolling in the new organization due to the generous offer of ALD for a free one year of membership - THANK YOU ALD! The following week, we were privileged to host James Carroll, founder and CEO of THOR Laser, and all enjoyed a lecture on Photobiomodulation. This after school event was attended by almost 100 students who did not leave disappointed!
 
As Co-President of the student laser association at Midwestern, along with board members and general membership, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Academy of Laser Dentistry for their extreme generosity in the form of waived ALD membership fees for our inaugural year, and student discounts for the annual ALD conference in Tucson, AZ. We literally couldn't have done it without you! Our hope is to spark interest and excitement within the future generation of dental professionals in laser utilization, who will join the pioneer doctors of the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Our organization is always looking for guest lecturers to speak with the students on the utilization and incorporation of lasers in the dental field. If you are interested in doing this, please contact our lunch and learn coordinator, Emily Loy at eloy21@midwestern.edu.

ALDSA Members with James Carroll of THOR Photomedicine, Ltd. 
Front row Lt. to Rt.: Eric To (Secretary), Pam Galarza (Treasurer), Dr. Nancy Fitzgerald, DMD (Faculty Advisor), Talita Norberto (Vice President), James Carroll (CEO of THOR Photomedicine, LTD). 
Back Row: Emily Loy (Lunch and Learn Coordinator), Jason Fluckinger (Co-President), Dr. Art Levy, DDS, Not Present: Denise Choo (Co-President), Zoran Bundalo (Fundraising Chair), Elieza Tang (Class Rep.), Jessica Teiman (Class Rep.), Carly Boudreaux (Fundraising Chair), Dr. Stephen Hardy, DDS (Faculty Advisor).
AN INTERVIEW WITH THE ALD CONFERENCE CHAIRS interview
Dr. Charles Hoopingarner and Dr. Ed Kusek
 
The 2017 Annual Conference is almost here, and the hard work of numerous committees is coming together to create an incredible opportunity for ALD members! We've asked this year's Chairs, Dr. Charles Hoopingarner (l) and Dr. Ed Kusek (r), to share their insights and give readers a sneak-peek into what's in store for Tucson. 

ALD : Tell me about the 2017 annual conference. What's in store for attendees and what are you most excited about? 
EK We have scheduled something for everyone; new attendees, those interested in diodes only, latest information on Photobiomodulation, a two-day Pediatric track, a Periodontal session with each company's featured speakers sharing their protocols for treating periodontal disease. The Peri-implantitis session will culminate with a consensus of treatment of failing implants.  Sessions on Digital Imaging and Cone Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT), Endodontic session from two of the top clinicians for Erbium lasers, Aesthetic dentistry session on uses of lasers for optimum aesthetics, Photography session, Staff sessions, Hygiene sessions, how to get a return on your dental laser investment plus all the usual sessions that give clinicians chances to use different lasers and hear from the top clinicians in their field.
CRH I am looking forward to the Seidner Student Scholarship competition. This year, we had twelve submissions, and the best three will be presenting to the general membership in a competition for the student awards. We will be hosting several users' group sessions and expanding our program to include other areas of technology as well.
 
ALD: What are you most excited about for our members? 
EK:   This isn't your usual ALD meeting; we're discussing a lot of exciting topics with expert clinicians in laser dentistry. ALD is the forum for new protocols and the exchange of ideas, and I'm glad to be a part of forging new territory.
CRH: This is always a great opportunity to discuss ideas techniques and things we have learned how to do with our fellow practitioners. I learn more every year from informal conversations at ALD annual meetings than any other venues I attend.
 
ALD:  What does the theme, Controversies, Dilemmas and Technology with Laser Dentistry in the Twenty-first Century, mean to you? 
EK We have taken on the controversies of which laser to use for periodontal disease.  Peri-implantitis has many suggested treatments, but no consensus on what works consistently. ALD has assembled the top clinicians with traditional treatment and use of lasers as an adjunct treatment to solve this dilemma. ALD for the first time will discuss the importance of digital impression in today's dentistry and increasing use of CBCT for diagnostic tools for implant, orthodontic, periodontic and endodontic dentistry. ALD has always been a leader in technology for Photobiolmodulation and treatment of lip and tongue ties.
CRH Our meeting is always the time where our attendees can listen to multiple sides of every issue, evaluate new research, learn new techniques and decide which presenters are giving the most helpful information. 
 
ALD: Tell us about being the Conference Chair. Why did you agree to chair the conference? What's your experience been like so far? What have you learned and gained by participating in the planning process?
EK:  I love continuing education; you need to keep learning and growing in dentistry. I am passionate about learning and want to challenge those attending to learn new and better treatments with the use of lasers in dentistry. The ideas for this conference started over three years ago, when Dr. Hoopingarner asked me to be General and Scientific Chair. I'm excited to make our ideas a reality. A conference takes a lot of planning. For those of you who don't know, we have a Conference Committee of 7 members, and a General & Scientific Sessions Committee of 11 members. All together, there are approximately 18 members working with our professional staff of 4 to make ALD's conference the best experience possible for all attendees.
CRH I agreed to chair this conference because Dr. Kusek agreed to organize a world class program. He has done a masterful job bringing in the leaders of industry, education and laser interest groups. All in attendance will benefit from his diligent perseverance.
 
ALD: What does it take to plan the ALD Annual Conference? What all is involved?
EK: Organization!  You need start early, make check lists, follow through with the lists and be persistent in approach. You need to permeate your passion to subcommittee members and to speakers.
CRH Without a doubt, a great team. I have been exceptionally fortunate to have a great General and Scientific chair. We have had many members working for several years to bring this together. Our onsite volunteer team and our dedicated group in our administrative office will be there to insure everyone has the opportunity to maximize their meeting experience.
 
ALD:  What are you most looking forward to seeing happen from a planning perspective?
EK:
I'm most excited about the Peri-implantitis track. I am an implant dentist, who got involved with lasers to provide better surgical outcomes for my patients. Laser dentistry has changed the way I practice. To have the President of American Academy of Implant Dentistry speak at our meeting and be willing to be part of the consensus article is HUGE!
I'm excited to see new individuals experiencing laser dentistry for the first time. To see their faces when the light bulb goes off in their head, when they see how we can provide better patient treatments, is exciting. 
CRH: I am proud of the academic input that Dr. Kusek has included in the program and that lasers are being accepted in their communities. We are becoming more mainstream every year and this meeting is always our yearly highlight.
 
ALD: What do you want to leave our members with, regarding the 2017 Annual Conference experience?
EK: This is one of THE best meetings I have been to.
CRH An invitation to our 25th Anniversary meeting in Orlando!
 
ALD: How will this year's meeting be different - and how is the planning process different for 2017?
EK: I have given all invited laser companies a chance to have their top speakers on each subject matter. Most have championed this opportunity and some have decided not to participate... thus it will be their loss. I've worked really hard to include all laser types. Doing so creates the greatest learning environment for all types of clinicians.
CRH This year we set up very specific guidelines and criteria for both our invited speakers and abstract submissions. We have held to our limits and I think that will increase the quality of the presentations and the ability to take home valuable information.

Register now for the ALD 2017 Annual Conference.
researchRESEARCH IS HAPPENING IN ARIZONA
By Arthur B. Levy, DMD

As the winter sun reaches the northern skies and the thermometer drops to unheard of levels of the 60's and 50's, the research work in the Valley of the Sun is continuing, unfrozen by the elements at the two dental institutions in Phoenix, Arizona. We have approximately 30 researchers, combining both programs (CDMA at Midwestern University and ASDOH at A. T. Still University ), hard at work in the pursuit of knowledge. We have projects ranging from laser uses to dental materials , both in the Clinical and the Basic Science areas. Our research students are paired with interested research faculty and guided in planning, as well as hands-on work by their respective faculty.

This initial research update is intended to familiarize the members of the Academy of Laser Dentistry, world-wide, with the collaborative efforts occurring in dental schools. We trust that this will be the first of a continuing series of reports on work being done, as well as a resource for questions to be researched when the need arises. 

Research in Progress
Bacterial Decontamination of the Endodontically Treated Tooth : Lucas Shim: ASDOH, Class of 2018:
  • The American Association of Endodontists states that one of the primary objectives of endodontic treatment is the disinfection of the root canal system [1]. However, current literature indicates a lack of total cleanliness, or bacterial decontamination, of the root canal system following most endodontic treatment. Recent studies have shown that utilization of a novel laser assisted Photon Induced Photoacoustic Streaming (PIPS) technique may result in more effective bacterial Decontamination than conventional, mechanical cleansing and irrigation alone. The aim of this in vitro study is to look at the efficacy of the PIPS technique using an Er:YAG laser using particular laser Tips. These tips were developed for this method in order to completely disinfect the root canal system. We will also attempt to compare the effectiveness of the conventional endodontic crown-down and ultrasonic irrigation techniques as well as the efficacy of Sodium Hypochlorite vs Hyben X, a new desiccating solution used in tissue decontamination.

    American Association of Endodontists. (2013). Guide to clinical endodontics [Guide] 
     
A Parallel Arm Study Comparing the Effectiveness of Oral Hygiene Devices on Plaque Accumulation and Bleeding in an Adolescent Orthodontic Population with Fixed Appliances. Patel NK., Shlossman M., Bay C., Park JH., Abramowitz RA. Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona.
  • Problem Statement: Fixed orthodontic appliances (FOAs) decrease proper oral hygiene maintenance by hindering the "self-cleansing" actions of saliva due to creation of "hard to reach areas". The buildup of plaque is known to lead to different oral manifestations, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and white spot lesions.
  • Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of four oral hygiene regimens on supragingival plaque and gingivitis among patients with FOAs.
  • Hypothesis:  There is a difference in the amount of plaque remaining and degree of gingival inflammation around orthodontic fixed appliances among patients who use manual brushing + manual flossing, as compared to patients who use manual brushing + water irrigation, power brushing + manual flossing, and power brushing + water irrigation. 
Peripheral CCR2 Macrophages Present in Brain Following Traumatic Brain Injury: Antagonism of CCR2 Marcophages Decrease Severity of Cognitive Misfunction of Cognitive Misfunction Following TBI : Bankiewicz K1, Morganti JM2,3, Chou A2,4, Riparip LK2, Liu S5, Gupta N5, and Rosi S.2,3,4,5  Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona;1 Brain and Spinal Injury Center,2 Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science,3 Neuroscience Graduate Program,4 Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA5
  • Problem Statement: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be caused by a variety of high impact sports, vehicle accidents, or most commonly, simple falls. TBI is a complex immune reaction in the central nervous system involving resident cells, such as glial cells, microglia, and leukocytes. Activation of the CCL2-CCR2 signaling axis is suspected to allow peripheral CCR2-expressing monocytes into injured neuronal tissue, where they become activated macrophages expressing pro-inflammatory mediators. Inflammation following TBI has been found to be both neuroprotective (El Khoury et al.,2007; Naert and Rivest, 2011) as well as neurotoxic (Mildner et al., 2009; Saederup et al., 2010; Belarbi et al., 2013).
  • Purpose: The overall purpose of this study was to examine in what time frame the peripheral CCR2 immune response followed TBI and to understand whether the pro-inflammatory response caused by peripheral monocytes entering the brain was helpful or toxic. Most importantly, this study's goal was to see whether antagonization of the peripheral immune response following TBI could significantly decrease neuronal damage, decrease accumulation of reactive oxide species (ROS) and ameliorate cognitive dysfunction.
  • Hypothesis: We hypothesized that TBI-induced mice would show an increase in accumulation of CCR2 peripheral macrophages following injury and that by using CCX872, a model phase I CCR2 selective antagonist, TBI- induced inflammation would be significantly reduced and cognitive behavior would be superior to wild type (WT) TBI-induced mice. 
A Review of 173 Closed Head Injuries Associated with Facial Fractures at a Level 1 Trauma Center: Brantley T1, Kalamchi S1, and Harris M2.  Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona, USA;1 School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom.2
  • Problem Statement: The most recent American study analyzing concurrent closed head injuries and facial fractures was conducted between 1984 and 1990.
  • Purpose: This study aims to provide up-to-date data of closed head injuries with facial trauma in the United States.
  • Research Question: Which patient demographic information, mechanism of injury, and type of facial fracture is most commonly involved which such injuries in emergency room cases? 
Parkinson's Disease Effects on Oral Plaque Accumulation: Brummerhop AS1, Rozas NS2, Howorth H2, Bauer T2, Rhodes A2, Nguyen J1, Arafat S2, & Loumau A2, Sadowsky J2, Jeter CB.2 Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona, USA;1 University of Texas School of Dentistry, Houston, Texas, USA.2
  • Problem Statement: Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) have a progressive condition characterized by the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain, an area involved in the control of movement.  It has been suggested that these patients develop oral health problems, such as caries and periodontal disease, at higher rates than the general population.  It is currently unknown whether these conditions are due to direct consequences of the disease or indirect effects, such as an inability to brush their teeth or adverse changes in diet.  The significance of the correlation between PD and plaque accumulation is that appropriate attention to maintaining the oral health of these patients with PD can improve their quality of life and social interactions.
  • Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether individuals with PD show higher levels of oral plaque accumulation compared to controls.  An additional goal of the study was to determine if increasing hand tremors correlate with decreased oral hygiene.
  • Hypothesis: Patients with PD have higher plaque index scores than controls due to reduced manual dexterity. 
A Qualitative Study of the Oral Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors, and Views about School-based Oral Health Education of 11-14 Year Old Secondary School Children: Castelin CM1, Rosenberg S2, Weston-Price S3, and Pine CM4.Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona1; Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts2; Queen Mary University of London, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, England3,4.
  • Problem Statement: Dental caries remains a prevalent childhood disease across various ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and diverse communities. In order for public health educational resources to effectively reach children, technology has been implemented to supplement current curriculums and offer an engaging method for children to become motivated to learn about systemic and oral health. Public Health England has developed e-Bug (www.e-Bug.eu), an interactive website, for use by schoolchildren across 27 European and international countries. Currently, the content in the e-Bug curriculum focuses on antibiotic use and primary health care. The addition of an oral health component to this educational resource could greatly affect the overall health of children and adolescents across Europe.
  • Purpose: While e-Bug content has already been developed and introduced for younger age ranges, the older adolescent students are a greater challenge to engage and educate about systemic and oral health. In order to effectively introduce an oral health and nutrition component to this project, research must be conducted to explore adolescent decision-making behaviors and conceptual ideologies to focus educational outreach on children 11-14 years of age. The purpose of this qualitative study was to address the gaps in understanding about the oral health knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes of 11-14 year old school children. Using this deductive research and constructive paradigms, a better understanding was gained about what is known by this adolescent population about nutrition and oral health as well as how they best receive information in the form of supplemental educational programs and resources provided by the e-Bug oral health education module.
  • Research Question: Are there any gaps in knowledge that 11-14 year old school children have regarding oral hygiene and nutrition and its effects on oral health? How best may adolescents be motivated to learn about oral hygiene, nutrition, and oral health in a classroom and online setting?
Effects of Abutment Screw Torque on Peri-Implant Bone Strain: Giauque JJ 1, Feller ES1, Al-Amleh B2, and Waddell JN2. Arizona School of Dental and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona, USA1; Oral Rehabilitation, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Dunedin, New Zealand.2
  • Problem StatementThe angulated screw channel with the omni-screw and driver is new.  It is not known whether torque down of the implant abutment screw at an angle causes extra strain on the surrounding bone or screw damage.
  • Purpose: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of implant abutment screw torque on the micro strain distribution in peri-implant bone caused by a 25 angulated screw channel (ASC) versus a conventional straight long axis screw channel. Screw damage and reusability was also investigated.
  • Research Question: Does excessive torque on an implant abutment screw with a 25 degree angulated screw channel cause micro strain effects on peri-implant bone?
The Effect of Facemask Therapy for Correction of Class III Malocclusion Among Indonesian Pediatric Patients:  Halim IA1 and Halim H.2 Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona1; Faculty of Dentistry, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia.2
  • Problem statement: Class III malocclusion can be readily identified, but is often quite difficult to treat. The physical characteristics, such as dental anterior cross bite, and facial appearance of the affected child often stimulate the parent to seek orthodontic treatment.  Class III molar relationship refers to a condition where the mesiobuccal cusp of the maxillaryfirst molar occludes between the mandibular first and second molar. Although this definition represents a typical Class III dental relationship, the mandibularfirstmolar can also be mesial to themesiobuccal cuspof the maxillary first molar in varying degrees.ClassIII malocclusion can be attributed to maxillary skeletal retrusion, mandibular skeletal protrusion, or a combination of both conditions.Patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion usually present with a Class III molar relationship, posterior crossbite, and/or anterior crossbite. Prevalence of Class III malocclusion is higher in Southeast Asian as compared to European countries, Middle Eastern Nations, and other Asian regions. Previous studies have evaluated the effect of facemask use as a therapy or an early treatment forClass III malocclusion; however, no study has been conducted that specificallyexamines use of this intervention among the population of Southeast Asia.
  • Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of facemask therapy for the treatment of Class III malocclusion among Indonesian pediatricpatients.
  • Hypothesis: The use of facemask therapy as compared to no facemask therapy is more effective for the correction of Class III malocclusion among Indonesian pediatric patients. 
A Survey of Dentist Perceptions about Use of an Interactive App/Website to Influence Patient Trust, Compliance and Case Acceptance: Hanks T, Thomas, S. Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona.
  • Problem Statement: Poor awareness among parents about the oral health of their young children translates to poor oral health. Parents have expressed the need for enhanced oral health care information and guidance from dental professionals. Dental professionals may benefit from the use of technology to improve oral health instruction and treatment plan presentation. Through the use of innovative technology that leads to better parent awareness it is possible to see improved patient-doctor trust, increased patient compliance and an increase in case acceptance. There are current methods of communication that are centered around increasing patient awareness of health problems which have been proven to improve dental outcomes.1
  • Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess dentists' perceptions about how use of interactive apps/websites to explain treatment plans, dental histories, and oral health educational material influences patient-doctor trust, patient compliance and case acceptance. 
  • Research Question: Do dentists perceive that use of an interactive app/website to explain treatment plan, dental history and oral health instructions will increase (1) patient-doctor trust (2) patient compliance and (3) case acceptance? 
Dental Implants: Cross Sectional Study to Determine Risk Factors Associated iwth Implant: Pratt F, Porter B. Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona.
  • Problem Statement: There are significant numbers of failed dental implants.  Further investigation is needed to determine the cause of implant failure.
  • Purpose: The purpose of the study was to identify risk factors that were associated with failure of implants that were placed by three oral surgeons within the same private practice.
  • Research Question: What are the risk factors that contribute to implant failure in patients treated in a private practice setting?

Heparan Sulfate 3-O-Sulfation Increases Progenitor Cell Expansion: Taylor CA1,Patel VN2, Smith SA2, Hoffman, MP.2  Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ , USA;1 Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.2
  • Problem Statement: Stem/progenitor cell therapy has been proposed to repair the permanent radiation damage to salivary glands that occurs during therapy for head and neck cancer.
  • Purpose: A biopsy would be used to expand the resident stem/progenitor cells in vitro for autologous transplantation. Expanding salivary stem/progenitors in culture for transplantation is an important step. Fibroblast growth factor (FGFR) signaling is critical for salivary stem/progenitor cell expansion during embryonic organogenesis and heparan sulfate
  • Hypothesis/Aim: We aim to identify sulfated heparin sulfate (HS) epitopes that specifically increase FGFR signaling and salivary progenitor expansion. Proteoglycan  co-receptors are required for FGFR signaling. 
Assessment of Dental Services Offered by Hemophilia Treatment Centers in the United States: Wachter B, Arana E, Schaffer R and Duong, M.  Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University, Mesa, Arizona.
  • Problem StatementHemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs) mandate that patients with bleeding disorders have access to oral health education and dental care services. However, variability exists in access to dental care for people with bleeding disorders in the United States.  A previous national survey of HTCs found that oral health education is offered at most centers. Availability of dental providers and types of dental services varies across HTCs.  Lack of financial resources often accounts for these disparities. 
  • PurposeThe Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health and the National Hemophilia Federation conducted a joint survey.  The purpose was to gather data about available dental services for people with bleeding disorders.
  • Research Questions: What oral health services are available to patients with hemophilia who are treated at HTCs? What are the barriers to receiving oral health services among patients with hemophilia? 
Conclusions
We hope that you enjoyed this overview of Research occurring in Arizona. We welcome your input to our work and invite you to check back on the results of the research as time goes on. Watch for the next Research update for results as well as new research being planned. I can be reached by email at lsrdocabl@gmail.com.

Dr. Levy is  Asst. Professor at A. T. Still University
Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health
Dental Researcher
Midwestern University
College of Dental Medicine Arizona
Former President ALD 2011-2012
 






IN MEMORY OF DR. FRED MARGOLIS margolis
By Gail Czarnecki, DDS

Our beloved friend, mentor, and teacher, Dr. Margolis has recently passed away. Affectionately known as "Uncle Fred", Dr. Margolis was a gifted practitioner and teacher of pediatric laser dentistry. His patients and their families loved coming to see him as he had a special talent for making them feel like family. A natural born teacher, Dr. Margolis was passionate about sharing his knowledge. He was a pioneer in the field of pediatric laser dentistry. 

Among his many accomplishments, he held mastership certification from the World Clinical Laser Institute and the Academy of Laser Dentistry where he had achieved both advanced certification and educator certification. He lectured and taught numerous courses to many dental residents and dental health professionals and has welcomed them into his office to observe his techniques in pediatric laser dentistry.  I am personally grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Margolis. He was a wonderful friend and mentor, and an inspiration to so many people. He leaves us with a legacy of professional excellence and dedication to serving others that will continue to inspire us all for many years to come.

He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.


10 FACTS ABOUT ALD facts
By Gail Siminovsky, CAE
  1. ALD is a not-for-profit, independent organization that determines that professional educational standards for the safe use of lasers are met.  
  2. ALD is internationally recognized as a professional standard-setting leader. 
  3. ALD has no commercial bias. 
  4. ALD is recognized by the ADA as an affiliated organization, is an ADA CERP Continuing Education Recognized Provider, and is an Academy of General Dentistry approved program provider. 
  5. ALD's Dr. Eugene Seidner Student Scholarship Program reached its $100,000 goal and continues to add awardees annually to the 26 awards provided since inception in 2004.  
  6. ALD established a Research Grant Funding program in 2017. 
  7. ALD plays an integral role in the ANSI Standards with the Laser Institute of America (LIA).  
  8. ALD 2016 Annual Session attendance growth reached a high of 400 including 231 dentists and 50 hygienists, 27 exhibiting companies. 
  9. The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) has established a Special Interest Group on Lasers thanks to members of the ALD. 
  10. ALD is represented on the ADA Standards Committee on Dental Products Working Group on Dental Lasers (ADA SCDP) and the ADA Standards Committee on Dental Informatics (ADA SCDI).  
ald2017bREGISTER NOW FOR ALD 2017
By Margaret Angarola

Were you one of the 328 registered attendees who attended the ALD 2016 Conference and Exhibition at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando? If so, you know it was a great success! If you were unable to be there, we missed you! So, you will want to register now ALD 2017 in Tucson,  April 6-8, 2017.  Work is already well underway, and we want you to be a part of another valuable gathering of dental professionals from all over the world. ALD 2017 will be another wonderful opportunity for you to benefit from the lectures, workshops, exhibits and opportunities for networking, to learn, grow your practice, and meet your colleagues.  Controversies, Dilemmas and Technology with Laser Dentistry in the Twenty-First Century  is the theme. The venue is the beautiful El Conquistador Golf and Tennis Resort in scenic Tucson, Arizona. ALD 2017 will be here before you know it - join your colleagues and register now. Need more info?  Check the conference website for the latest program schedule! See you in Tucson!
ALD Logo
The  Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD) is an international professional association of dental practitioners and supporting organizations dedicated to improving the health and well­-being of patients through the proper use of laser technology.

 
Not yet an ALD member? Learn more about the  benefits of membership.
Already an ALD member?  Make the most of your  membership today.
 
Contact us:

STAY CONNECTED: