2026 Year-End Dental Equipment Specials & Financing
Jacob Sigmon
Explore fourth-quarter equipment specials, KaVo handpiece promotions, digital dentistry upgrades, and special financing opportunities available through December 31, 2026.
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PRECIOUS METAL PRICES ARE UP. WHAT'S YOUR DENTAL SCRAP WORTH
Jacob Sigmon
YOUR OLD DENTAL SCRAP MAY BE MORE VALUABLE THAN YOU THINK
PRECIOUS METAL PRICES ARE UP.
WHAT'S IN YOUR SCRAP JAR?
That container of old crowns, bridges and dental alloys sitting in your office could contain valuable gold, silver, platinum and palladium.
FIND OUT WHAT YOUR SCRAP IS WORTH →PRECIOUS METAL PRICES TODAY
Approximate Spot Prices • September 18, 2026
DON'T LET YOUR DENTAL SCRAP JUST SIT IN A DRAWER.
Precious metals are valuable — and many dental restorations contain a combination of gold, silver, platinum and palladium. With precious-metal prices at elevated levels, this could be an excellent time to have that old scrap jar professionally evaluated.
You may be surprised by how much value has been sitting inside your office.
WHAT'S ACTUALLY IN YOUR DENTAL SCRAP?
Old dental restorations can contain precious-metal alloys that may not look particularly valuable at first glance. That's why you shouldn't judge dental scrap simply by its appearance — or by the weight of the jar.
Your scrap jar may contain:
Old Crowns
Bridges
PFM Restorations
Dental Alloys
The real value comes from determining the recoverable precious-metal content through professional refining and analysis.
DON'T SELL YOUR SCRAP BY WEIGHT ALONE.
Two dental scrap jars that weigh exactly the same can have very different values.
Why? Because their concentrations of gold, silver, platinum and palladium can be completely different.
A professional refining and assay process determines the actual recoverable precious-metal content so your settlement can be based on what's really inside the jar.
I'LL MAKE THE PROCESS EASY.
1
Gather Your Scrap
Collect your old crowns, bridges and other dental scrap.
2
I'll Pick It Up
Contact me and I'll arrange to pick up your dental scrap from your office.
3
Turn It Into Cash
Your scrap is professionally processed and evaluated for its recoverable precious-metal value.
TURN OLD DENTAL SCRAP INTO CASH FOR YOUR PRACTICE.
Instead of letting that jar continue collecting dust, put the value back to work for your practice.
ATLANTA DENTAL SUPPLY
READY TO SEE WHAT YOUR JAR IS WORTH?
Contact me and I'll help you get your dental scrap professionally evaluated.
Jacob Sigmon
Atlanta Dental Supply
REQUEST A DENTAL SCRAP PICKUP →
Precious-metal prices shown are approximate spot-market prices as of September 18, 2026 and are provided for informational purposes only. Market prices fluctuate throughout the trading day. Dental scrap value depends on the type and quantity of recoverable metals, assay results, refining terms and market conditions at the time of settlement. Spot market prices do not represent a guaranteed dental scrap payout.
Refresh Your Whitening Program With Pola Whitening
Jacob Sigmon
Atlanta Dental Supply presents Pola Whitening
Refresh your whitening program with a complete system your team can actually use.
Pola gives dental offices a full professional whitening platform: fast in-office treatment, flexible take-home gels, aligner whitening, LED whitening, and touch-up maintenance options.
Built for better whitening conversations
- Multiple options for different patient lifestyles and sensitivity levels
- In-office, take-home, aligner, LED, and on-the-go products
- Support for implementation, team education, and patient presentation
- A practical way to rebuild whitening as a cosmetic revenue opportunity
Is your current whitening program creating opportunities — or just sitting on the shelf?
Whitening should be simple for the team to recommend and easy for patients to say yes to. If your current system feels limited, confusing, or underpromoted, Pola gives your office a cleaner program to build around.
Low patient acceptanceGive patients better choices based on time, sensitivity, budget, and lifestyle.
Outdated protocolsModernize your whitening menu with in-office, take-home, aligner, LED, and maintenance options.
Team uncertaintyUse a free Lunch & Learn to train the team on how to present and implement the program.
One whitening brand. Multiple ways to grow cosmetic dentistry.
Pola is designed as a total whitening package, not just a single product. That gives your office more ways to match the right whitening option to the right patient.
In-office whitening
Pola Rapid™ & Pola Office™
Fast chairside whitening options for patients who want same-day results or a stronger cosmetic jump start.
- Pola Rapid: 38% hydrogen peroxide with approximately 24-minute application time
- Pola Office: 35% hydrogen peroxide, designed for whitening in less than 30 minutes
- Built-in desensitizing technology and fluoride support
- Can help reduce chair time and improve productivity
Take-home whitening
Pola Day™, Pola Night™ & Pola Day CP™
Flexible take-home options for patients who want professional whitening on their own schedule.
- Daytime and overnight options
- Multiple strengths for different patient needs
- Potassium nitrate and fluoride to help manage sensitivity
- Pola Day CP offers short wear times for fast take-home whitening
Aligner whitening
Pola for Aligners™
Turn clear aligner patients into whitening patients with a simple add-on that fits into their existing treatment.
- Designed for orthodontic aligner trays
- No additional tray wear time for many patients
- Convenient 4-syringe take-home kits
- Great whitening conversation for aligner starts and refinements
LED + maintenance
Pola Light™ & Pola Luminate™
Create premium take-home and maintenance options for patients who want convenience and continued brightness.
- Pola Light combines whitening gel with a rechargeable LED mouthpiece
- Designed to deliver whiter teeth in as little as 5 days
- Pola Luminate is a brush-on touch-up option with 6% hydrogen peroxide
- Great for retail, maintenance, and post-treatment follow-up
Complimentary team training
Free Lunch & Learn for your office
Atlanta Dental will bring lunch and walk your team through the Pola whitening program, including how to select products, present whitening options, manage sensitivity concerns, and build whitening into everyday patient conversations.
Product overview and recommendations
In-office vs. take-home workflows
Aligner whitening opportunities
Patient presentation tips
Cosmetic case acceptance strategies
Match the right whitening option to the right patient
A stronger whitening program starts with giving the team simple categories they can confidently recommend.
1
The Busy PatientFast in-office or short-wear take-home whitening.2
The Sensitive PatientLower concentration options with sensitivity support.3
The Aligner PatientWhiten while straightening with aligner-friendly gels.4
The Cosmetic PatientLED whitening and premium take-home options.5
The Maintenance PatientOn-the-go touch-up products to help maintain brightness.Simple rollout. Better conversations. More whitening opportunities.
Review your current whitening setup
We’ll help identify what is working, what is missing, and where your team may need a better product menu.
Train the team over lunch
Your Lunch & Learn gives the team practical guidance on products, protocols, and patient conversations.
Launch a refreshed program
Position whitening as a simple cosmetic service patients can understand and your team can recommend consistently.
Ready to refresh your whitening program?
Whether you need to replace an underperforming system or build a stronger cosmetic offering, Pola gives your office a complete professional whitening platform with Atlanta Dental support.
Atlanta Dental Supply | Pola Whitening Program. Product details summarized from SDI Pola whitening materials. Always follow manufacturer instructions for use.
Jacob Sigmon
3D Imaging for Modern Dentistry
Why More Dentists Are Investing in CBCT
Cone Beam CT is no longer just a specialty technology. It has become a major advantage for general dentists and specialists who want stronger diagnostics, better patient communication, and a more advanced treatment planning workflow.
3D Visualization
See anatomy with more depth and confidence.
Case Acceptance
Make complex treatment easier to explain.
Airway Insight
Support modern screening conversations.
Practice Growth
Keep more diagnostics and planning in-house.
Why CBCT matters
The clinical and business case for 3D imaging
Dentists evaluating CBCT are usually asking two questions: does it improve care, and does it make financial sense? In many practices, the answer to both is yes.
Better diagnostics, fewer surprises
CBCT gives dentists a 3D view of anatomy for implants, endodontics, airway evaluation, impacted teeth, pathology review, sinus analysis, and surgical planning.
Higher-value case acceptance
When patients can see the anatomy in 3D, treatment conversations become clearer. That visual confidence can support acceptance for implant, endo, airway, ortho, and surgical cases.
Keeps more treatment in-house
Owning CBCT can reduce outside referrals for imaging and help practices move faster from diagnosis to treatment planning inside the office.
Supports modern workflows
CBCT integrates naturally into digital dentistry workflows including guided surgery, restorative planning, specialty consultations, airway reviews, and multidisciplinary planning.
Airway-focused conversation
Why Vatech stands out for airway presentations
One of the strongest patient communication advantages in CBCT is airway visualization. Vatech is especially compelling for practices that want to discuss airway more clearly through consultation-friendly software and color airway presentation tools.
Color airway visualization: When a doctor can visually walk a patient through constricted versus open airway space, the conversation becomes more tangible and more memorable.
Practice differentiation: Airway imaging helps many offices position themselves as more comprehensive and more modern, especially in family dentistry, orthodontics, oral appliance conversations, and interdisciplinary case discussions.
Consultation value: Vatech’s presentation-driven software approach can help turn a technical scan into a patient-friendly visual explanation that supports trust and treatment understanding.
Airway Discussion Advantage
What dentists can communicate more clearly with airway-capable CBCT
Upper airway anatomy
Relationship between symptoms and anatomy
Interdisciplinary referrals
Sleep-related screening conversations
Visual patient education
Treatment planning context
Major CBCT brands
A look at respected CBCT platforms dentists often compare
Different practices prioritize different things. Some want airway presentation tools. Some want premium imaging breadth. Others want compact design, low-dose positioning, or highly detailed endodontic visualization.
Vatech
Strong airway story + consultation-friendly software
Green X platforms can combine panoramic imaging, optional ceph capability, CBCT, and model scan options depending on configuration.
Vatech is well known for airway analysis tools and colorized 3D visualization that can support more compelling patient consultations.
A particularly strong fit for practices that want to build an airway conversation into their diagnostic workflow.
Ray America
Face-driven dentistry + flexible upgrade path
Ray systems emphasize comprehensive diagnostics with combinations of CBCT, panoramic imaging, cephalometrics, and in some models facial scanning.
Flexible field-of-view positioning can appeal to growing practices that want room to expand their clinical workflow.
A strong option for doctors who want a premium diagnostic and patient presentation story.
DEXIS
Efficiency-focused platform with broad diagnostic coverage
The OP 3D family is designed around efficient workflows, intuitive positioning, and scalable 2D/3D capability.
OP 3D LX is positioned for broad diagnostic needs with field-of-view options suited for more complex anatomy capture.
A good fit for practices that want a recognized imaging ecosystem and streamlined everyday use.
Planmeca
Premium imaging with large-volume flexibility
Planmeca’s Viso line is built for high-end imaging workflows with broad volume flexibility on flagship models.
Its imaging programs support everything from localized scans to more comprehensive capture depending on the unit chosen.
Planmeca CALM motion-correction is a notable differentiator for reducing motion-related retakes.
PreXion
High-detail imaging and endo-friendly precision
PreXion emphasizes fine detail with a very small focal spot and high-resolution imaging modes.
Multiple field-of-view options help practices balance precision imaging with broader diagnostic needs.
Especially attractive for clinicians who prioritize image detail in endodontic and surgical evaluation.
ACTEON
Low-dose positioning and compact integration
ACTEON highlights true low-dose imaging in the X-MIND trium line.
Compact design and space-conscious configurations can matter for practices with tighter floorplans.
A compelling option for offices that want modern 3D capability while keeping the dose conversation front and center.
Where CBCT delivers value
Clinical uses and growth opportunities
For many practices, CBCT is both a clinical tool and a strategic investment that supports more advanced dentistry inside the office.
Common CBCT Use Cases
Implant planning
Airway evaluation
Endodontic diagnosis
Third molars and impactions
TMJ review
Sinus and pathology evaluation
Guided surgery workflows
Orthodontic and surgical consults
Why Buyers Move Forward
Differentiate your practice from offices still relying only on 2D imaging.
Increase diagnostic confidence before complex treatment begins.
Improve patient communication with more visual case presentations.
Support in-house growth for implants, surgery, endo, and airway cases.
Create a stronger digital foundation for future workflow expansion.
Next step
Want help comparing CBCT options for your practice?
The best CBCT is not always the one with the biggest spec sheet. It is the one that fits your clinical goals, your physical space, your patient mix, and the kind of dentistry you want to grow.
Updated HIPAA change effective February
Jacob Sigmon
Atlanta Dental Supply • Compliance Readiness
HIPAA Update for Dental Offices
What to Review Before February 16, 2026
Does your Notice of Privacy Practices need a quick update?
There’s a federal HIPAA update tied to substance use disorder (SUD) records and
42 CFR Part 2. Many dental practices should review their Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
before February 16, 2026.
This is not a full HIPAA overhaul — it’s a targeted update to your privacy notice language.
1 page • 1 minute • written for dentists
Why This Matters to Dentists
Even if you don’t treat substance use directly, dental offices often:
- Receive records from hospitals or specialists
- Share information within integrated health systems
- Use electronic records that include medical history
Some of that information can fall under extra privacy protections. Your NPP should reflect how that information is handled.
What You Should Do (Simple Version)
-
Review your current Notice of Privacy Practices
Make sure it addresses SUD / Part 2 information, not just general HIPAA language. -
Make sure your posted notice matches
If your NPP is on your website or handed out at intake, the wording should be current. -
Give your team basic guidance
Staff should know when to pause and ask if a privacy question comes up.
That’s it.
Quick 1-Minute Self-Check
If you checked any of these, a quick review is smart.
Free Resource for Dental Offices
HIPAA NPP Review Checklist
1 page • 1 minute • no legal jargon
This checklist helps you identify what to review with your compliance officer or attorney.
Atlanta Dental does not provide legal advice — this is an educational tool only.
How Atlanta Dental Helps
We’re not here to create paperwork. We help practices stay organized and prepared by providing:
- A simple checklist (no legal language)
- Clear talking points for your team
- A starting point for your compliance conversation
Bottom Line
This is about avoiding surprises, not creating work.
A quick review now beats a rushed update later.
© Atlanta Dental Supply • Educational resource • Not legal advice
Why BlueSky Bio is the right Implant Choice For Your Office!
Jacob Sigmon
If you place or restore dental implants, learn how Bluesky bio can help. Here are some reasons you’ll want to consider…
Quality - BlueSky Bio products are high quality and manufactured in the USA
Pricing - take a look below pricing at how your current system might compare
Multi-Level Customer Service
FREE Crowns & FREE Surgical Guides
Blue Sky Bio has been in business for 25 years
10 year expiration dates on BlueSky Bio implants
All starter packages include free surgical kits
Clinical advisors on staff
BIO BIG BOX (viewer) is HIPAA compliant and FREE
BlueSky Plan software is free dental planning software
10 Different Compatible Implant Systems
Bio Max and Bio Forte ($149 and $169) includes cover screw - NobelActive Compatible
Bio Internal Hex (149) includes cover screw - Implant Direct and Zimmer Compatible
Bio Quattro ($149) includes cover screw - Straumann bone level Compatible
Bio One Stage ($145) includes cover screw - Straumann tissue level Compatible
Bio Conus 12 ($149) includes cover screw - Astra Osseospeed TX Compatible
others - MultiOne, Zygo, Pterygoid and TADS implants
FREE Surgical And Prosthetic Services
FREE crown with the purchase of a Blue Sky Bio SKY-Base Digital Abutment
Blue Sky Bio customers are exclusively eligible for FREE crown design and FREE crown with the Max, Forte, Internal Hex, One Stage and Quattro implant systems. To be eligible:
· The case will be planned and executed with a Blue Sky Bio dental implant.
· The case has parallelism between adjacent teeth.
· The case is scanned with a Blue Sky Bio scan body (scannable impression coping).
· The case is single implants only. Multiple single implants not adjacent to each other are eligible.
· Cases of excessive implant depth or angulation are not eligible.
Click here for requirements and registration.
FREE Single Tooth Case Planning & FREE Surgical Guide
Blue Sky Bio customers are exclusively eligible for FREE single tooth case planning and a FREE single tooth guide for guided surgery. To be eligible:
· The case is planned and executed with a Blue Sky Bio dental implant.
· The customer has a Blue Sky Bio Guided Surgical Kits (item codes: GNGSKMF, GSKIH, GSKQ).
· Implant Planning and Surgical Guide Manufacturing is Free! The BlueSkyPlan export fee ($21) will be charged
when placing the order.
Click here for requirements and registration.
You can register an account online HERE. To receive special pricing and specials, make sure that you click Atlanta Dental when you are setting up your account.
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New Dental Waterline Requirements in 2025
Jacob Sigmon
NEW REGULATIONS ALERT
I’m reaching out to provide an important update on new waterline regulations just announced by the Georgia Board of Dentistry. These changes take effect January 1, 2025, and while they apply specifically to Georgia offices, it’s critical for all of us to be well-informed.
What You Need to Know
The new Rule 150-8-.05 focuses on dental unit waterline safety, addressing significant risks, including outbreaks of Mycobacterium abscessus in Georgia.
Key Requirements:
✅ Offices must perform quarterly waterline testing.
✅ Offices are required to maintain documentation of test results for at least 5 years.
✅ If test results fail, immediate remediation is mandatory.
These regulations emphasize patient safety and infection control—an increasingly important focus for state boards.
Here are some options for you to consider….
There are a couple of options or ways to help you with this requirement that you might want to consider. These tests have become less expensive with faster results as competition has increased with these products.
There are:
1) Mail-In Tests
2) In-Office Test
If you would like to get more information with pricing for your needs to comply, please contact me at jacobsigmon@atlantadental.com
How to Log Your Results
1) Manual Log - Here’s a link to a manual log that you can print out.
2) Digital Log - Here’s a great link to log your results digitally to go back to refer to
If you are interested in having me come in to help you with your protocol, please fill out this form below.
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Your Dental Scrap is Worth More Than Ever!
Jacob Sigmon
TURNING IN YOUR DENTAL SCRAP
Most offices have that container in a drawer that contains dental scrap. It contains valuable alloys that you can turn in to refine for money, gold coins or direct deposit. We partner with a couple different companies to help you get the most out of those containers. Many times, the money you receive from the containers can help pay for office holiday parties or part of the equipment that you might need in the office.
Some offices turn their containers into the “cash guy”. They will typically pay only on weight. Your dental scrap is worth much more than just the weight of the container. It’s highly recommended to have the material analyzed so you can know its true value!
Live Prices as of October 8, 2025 (approximate)
Gold: ~$4,039/ounce
Silver: ~$48.94/ounce
Platinum: ~$1,660/ounce
Palladium: ~$1,451/ounce
The combination of all 4 have settlements that are of the highest that we have seen. Let’s take a look at what those jars might look like and the amount of money you could receive DEPENDING on what’s in those jars. See 2 real examples below.
Below is a video that shows the steps of the refinery process that Argen takes. I have visited Argen many times and can attest to their meticulous process of getting you the exact composition and the value of the material that you turn in.
If you would like for me to stop by and collect your canister of dental scrap to have it evaluated, please fill out the form below or contact me. Once they evaluate it, they will come up with a settlement in which you accept or not accept. If you choose to not accept it, they will send you back the entire assay so that you can have with a value associated with it.
How To Make OSHA Easy For Your Dental Office!
Jacob Sigmon
Take a look at this short video below that goes over the advantages of a new product offering that makes OHSA, Infection Control, and HIPAA compliance so much easier for a dental office.
(make sure your sound is on)
In dental offices, it is a requirement to undergo annual Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training. This training ensures that all staff members are well-informed and up to date on essential safety protocols and procedures within the workplace. By completing OSHA training annually, dental offices can maintain a safe and compliant environment for both patients and employees. It is crucial for all team members to participate in this training to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the dental setting.
INTRODUCING COMPLI AND COMPLI+
Compli is a central hub that can be individualized to your office for achieving Compliance with OSHA, Infection Control, HIPAA, Sexual Harassment, and Fraud Waste and Abuse training requirements. Our platform offers 12 CE credits per team member at each office location, every year included in the yearly subscription fee of $595! We are ADA CERP and AGD PACE approved providers. CE certificates and certificates of participation are stored in our database and are also available in printable form. Compli includes a digital logging system to track your required weekly, monthly, and quarterly checks. Audit checklists that assure your office is not missing any compliance areas are also part of your yearly subscription.
Cost for Compli - $595 / year
Compli Plus This is an upgraded subscription and includes all the same courses with up to 12 CEs and managing, logging/tracking features etc. but also includes digital forms of the required OSHA/Infection Control and HIPAA office compliance manuals. . As you’re probably aware, an office should have one that is filled out, kept up to date at least annually, and accessible to all team members always. Then, they just need to start fresh with a new copy every 5 years and go through and fill it out. With the digital manuals included with Compli Plus, it provides an update service where it stays up to date automatically and sends an email if there is a new form to fill out, etc.
Cost for Compli Plus - $1195 / year
Here’s what I absolutely LOVE about Compli Plus
A dashboard at a fingers touch to be able to view who’s been trained, certificates, etc.
All of your required OSHA / Infection Control / HIPAA manuals digitally accessible instead of having to keep track and up to date paper manuals.
An up to date checklist that shows you what you have completed and what you haven’t completed. (See picture below)
An immediate training course for any new employee that joins your dental team.
This format helps you visually see and monitor your compliance within your office instead of having to call anyone.
Check out the dashboard that below that shows your completed vs. not completed action items.
If you want to learn about how Compli and Compli Plus can keep your dental office compliant all year, please fill out the form. I'll reach out to arrange it.
PROTECTING YOUR PRACTICE - Are Your Dental Water Lines Hurting Your Patients
Jacob Sigmon
The Problem
I know this topic isn't our favorite. Many would say it is downright boring. However, when it comes to protecting your practice, it is one of the most important hidden dangers that hides within your dental water lines.
I give many OSHA / HIPAA classes to dental offices that are required to have this training yearly. While some like to use that time as their daily nap, I like to take them on a "field trip" into their own operatories. We go over how water travels either from a bottle that is filled up by a dental team member or from the floor brought in by the city. That water travels through tubings that are very small and transported all the way through until it comes out in an air/water syringe or handpiece.
Read MoreAdding Silver Diamine To Your Arsenal of Options...
Jacob Sigmon
I frequently receive inquiries about my product recommendations. In the past, there was only one direct option when it came to Silver Diamine.
Fortunately, a new option has recently entered the market, offering improved quality and cost efficiency. SilverSense SDF is a fantastic product that Atlanta Dental proudly offers through our esteemed manufacturer partner, Centrix.
SILVER DIAMINE FLUORIDE IS PROVEN TO ELIMINATE YOUR PATIENTS’ ORAL PAIN
SilverSense SDF immediately eliminates hypersensitivity and enables more comfortable, pain-free dentistry; no needles, no drills. It helps prepare the tooth for your esthetic restorations.
SilverSense SDF also enables you to deliver assured care to your patients, even when they delay recommended treatment.
The result: healthier teeth, healthier patients.
ELIMINATES SENSITIVITY. SilverSense SDF silver particles act as a powerful desensitizer by occluding dentinal tubules, producing preferential fluorohydroxyapatite and increasing mineral density and hardness.
STOPS HARMFUL BACTERIAL FORMATION. Fluoride inhibits biofilm formation. Silver helps destroy plaque biofilm.
ELIMINATES PATIENT FEARS. SilverSense SDF paints on with a Benda® Micro applicator. There is no need for injections, anesthesia or drilling.
FAST & EASY TO USE. Application is simple and takes only minutes; perfect for even the most wiggly or impatient of patients.
HARDENS AND CONDITIONS SOFTENED DENTIN. SilverSense SDF fosters remineralization, inhibits calcium dissolution from hydroxyapatite and prevents the demineralization of enamel and dentin. Treated dentin will be twice as hard as healthy dentin.
COST-EFFECTIVE. One drop treats up to 5 teeth, less than $0.80/patient. If a patient is delaying restorative treatment due to financial concerns, SilverSense SDF will provide effective relief in the interim.
DOES NOT TURN TEETH BLACK!
SilverSense SDF will not stain healthy enamel or dentin. It only darkens the lesion on which it is placed.
ORDERING INFORMATION
REF310172 SilverSenseSDFStandardKit,1x5mLbottle,20applicators
REF310173 SilverSenseSDFClinicKit,3x5mLbottle,50applicators
Artificial Intelligence: A Gift to Dentistry
Jacob Sigmon
“Be a better clinician, a better caregiver, a better teacher of dentistry, and help your team implement the possibilities. ”
To be completely transparent, I took the headline of a great blog (Read Here) and modified it slightly. I’ve been in dentistry for over 20 years. I come from a business background and my focus has been to help dentists create successful small businesses through education, good decision-making, and implementation. When I see opportunity that meshes with the values and foundations of that business, I like to find out as much as I can to help it flourish.
UP YOUR GAME CE EVENT BY DR. CHAD DUPLANTIS
Recently, we had a CE event in Savannah, Georgia where Dr. Chad Duplantis presented on future technologies that are in the here and now. As I listened, the message clearly had its effects. There was one particular message that gained a lot of interest - artificial intelligence in the field of dentistry.
After Dr. Duplantis had talked about AI in dentistry, I witnessed a line being formed at that AI booth wanting to learn more about the technology. By the end of the educational event, there was an obvious buzz and momentum for AI in dentistry. I felt that Dr. Kyle Stanley in the aforementioned blog nailed it - that AI is truly a gift to dentists!
In that moment, that line of dentists at that particular booth made me recognize the opportunity for all dentists. I could feel through their expressions that this technology gives the dentists a relief from stress, a visual supportive adjunct of technology, and a new wave of confidence in treatment planning.
If you are new to AI in Dentistry, there are many blogs that you can read about (I appreciate you reading mine). There are many testimonials that you can view. There are many podcasts you can listen to. There are many videos you can watch. Just click on any of the ones previously mentioned in blue and it will take you to plenty.
The Why
Like it or not, humans have become very visual people. Studies have confirmed the power of visuals to engage your audience. It’s why I have pictures and videos on this blog. My hopes are that you read the blog, but use the pictures and videos to retain the key points of information and that it draws a response or emotion. Meaning you can relate or not relate!
Here are some findings of what studies have shown:
Visuals stick in long term memory
They transmit messages faster
Improve comprehension
Visual cues trigger emotion
Visual motivate learners
Incorrect use of visuals can deter learners
How does that transfer into treatment planning? Based upon the Spear Institute in 2019, Perceptions of Dentistry in the Information Age, greater than 90% of patients who can visualize their oral conditions are better prepared to make health-related decisions, explore treatment, and discuss payment options.
Introducing Pearl
Pearl is a company that is truly a leader and innovator in the AI market in Dentistry. They have a great product that we have vetted and have brought them in as a partner at Atlanta Dental. To understand Pearl, its best to understand their foundation. The following is from their website.
Borne by dentists. Built by visionaries.
Now that you know a little about Pearl, lets take a closer look into the product offering and how it can benefit a dental office, its team and their patients. The first product is:
SECOND OPINION
The first real-time dental AI platform that automatically detects numerous conditions in dental x-rays to give dentists a second set of eyes for superior radiologic accuracy. Here are some of the features of Second Opinion:
Broad detection capabilities
Dentists using Second Opinion gain a second set of eyes to help ensure that they've considered many common conditions that appear in their patients' radiographs.
That assurance comes from the system's ability to detect signs of various dental pathologies and other treatable conditions found in dental radiographs–including hard-to-spot issues like incipient caries or the early signs of a periapical radiolucency.Consistent, real-time results
Machines are able to perform the same task over and over, without getting bored, tired, or distracted. That means that Second Opinion will deliver the same high-quality analysis every time.
And because it analyzes and instantly delivers results whenever a new radiograph is captured, dentists can count on reliable support in real-time to give dentists the benefit of dental AI support when it matters most––while patients are still in the chair.Communicative Adjunct
Second Opinion was engineered to make it easier for dentists to read radiographs and communicate findings to patients.
Between its crystal clear high-contrast user interface designed to deliver optimal x-ray viewability and its intuitive image adjustment controls, Second Opinion lets dentists to see exactly what they want, how they want––and effortlessly share their findings in a way that patients can easily understand.
To get a deeper dive into the Second Opinion software, I’ve included a demo video below that will go over exactly how to pull up the patient, view their x-rays and the AI’s clinical software diagnostic capabilities.
I have one suggestion if you are a doctor reading this and are about to watch this video…I have been in dental for over 20 years. Diagnostic imaging is not my strong suit and I am ok with that. As you watch the video, think of the lens through your patients eyes and ears. See what they see and how it can be confusing when it’s being explained to them. This helps them visually understand they might need treatment through understanding the true differences of their carie in dentin and enamel, etc. It is an important thought of looking at it through their eyes while watching this video.
Pretty cool, right? Now, let’s look at Pearl’s second product offering:
pRACTICE INTELLIGENCE
Analytics has become increasingly more important in a dental practice now more than ever due to the growth of corporate dentistry. What I have found is that if you give the dentist the tools, that dentist either knows what to do with it or they are shy about incorporating technology. It becomes something that they bought, but never use because they don’t know how to implement it and teach it to their dental team successfully. KPI’s and ROI’s are important units of measurement within a dental practice. However, if you don’t know what KPI’s and ROI’s to look at, you can become confused about how to implement a particular technology.
Why are scuba pics in a blog about Dental AI? Read the suggestion! Can you guess which one is me?
Here’s a suggestion.
When you experience something for the first time, there’s a sense of wonder and amazement. I remember when I wanted to start scuba diving. I took a series of classes that helped me prepare for the experience. I never truly knew the intensity of that experience that i was about to have until I did it. I received my certification, did my safety check out dives in a lake, bought the gear and was on my way.
That first dive was in Belize. Our ultimate goal was the blue hole so our first ever dive leading up to the blue hole was a tough one - 125 feet down. I finally made it to the destination of all the hard work I had put in so that I could be prepared in case anything went wrong. I remember something specific about that first dive while I was under. I had that sense of wonder and amazement because it was like a whole new world of life that I had not previously explored, not ever known or experienced…now realized! It’s exactly the moment when I fell in love with diving. If you meet other divers, they have their own personal stories of wonder and amazement in every dive they have.
Why did I tell you that story?
Because, if you don’t fully “submerse” yourself into something that you truly believe can help you and use the tools that are available to you, your sense of wonder and amazement wanes. Pearl has AI software for dentistry that gives you tools and analytics that can benefit your practice in so many ways. Be a better clinician, a better caregiver, a better teacher of dentistry and help your team implement the possibilities. Experience the wonder and amazement when your patient looks at that radiograph and can see for themselves that there might be an issue that they need to address.
With Practice Intelligence, this product choice of Pearl can really help you make sense of your data. Spin practice data into profit, practitioner performance and patient health with computer vision-enabled clinical performance insights from the global leader in dental AI.
Below is a video that helps you understand the advantage of their Practice Intelligence product.
wANT TO SEE HOW THE ROI CAN AFFECT YOUR PRACTICE?
With all that said…
Only you can do what you feel is right for your dental practice. I hope that this has given you some insight on how AI technology is in the here and now. I am thankful for Dr. Chad Duplantis in introducing this technology to me as it is one of the most exciting technologies that I have seen in the 20+ years I have been in dentistry. My only hope is that insurances (if you are insurance based) don’t use this platform as their only clinical basis. This is intended solely to be an aid and adjunct for dentists so that they can diagnose and implement their professional diagnosis to their patient.
“The relationships and care that dental teams provide to their patients with their health in mind are much more important than how insurances view the payout of what they estimate it to be.”
If you would like to learn more about this software, fill out this form below.
What dental offices do every year to stay competitive and compliant
Jacob Sigmon
At the beginning of every year, I receive calls from offices that are wanting to schedule their OSHA training so that they can be compliant for the year. Those calls prompted me to create a list of items that dental offices will want to complete yearly to stay competitive and compliant. Without further adieu, lets begin:
Osha training
Depending on your state, OSHA training is required yearly for dental offices. Bloodborne Pathogen Standard 1910.1030(g)(2)(i) says “The employer shall train each employee with occupational exposure in accordance with the requirements of this section. Such training must be provided at no cost to the employee and during working hours. The employer shall institute a training program and ensure employee participation in the program.” Additionally, “employers shall provide additional training when changes such as modification of tasks or procedures or institution of new tasks or procedures affect the employee's occupational exposure.”
At Atlanta Dental, our Territory Managers are trained and ready to provide that training for your office. If you would like to schedule OSHA training for your office, you may do so below.
What happens if an OSHA inspector were to walk in today to your office? Here’s a great read from a real life scenario when that happened. Click Here.
Insurance Participation assessment & fee reviews
If you take insurance, you know how vital it is to make sure that your insurance reimbursement is profitable. Over the past 10 years, Dentists have been experiencing a squeeze. A squeeze is when costs go up due to inflation, unforeseen matters such as COVID, etc., yet your insurance reimbursement does not match the rise of costs. At Atlanta Dental, we have a resource that helps dentists with creating a profitable practice while being in network with PPO’s. If you would like to check out some case studies for some offices, click HERE.
If you want to know more about our PracticeLife partner, Dental Advocacy Group, you can click on the button below. Once on their website, you can take a free assessment to see if your practice is a good candidate for their services. A dentist said to me…
“Every Dentist should know about Dental Advocacy Group. I can’t believe I waited so long before believing in them. ”
Review your cONTINUING EDUCATION (CE) needs
As you already know, you are required to participate and complete live CE’s. For example, below are the requirements for the state of Georgia:
Dentists - 40 CE's for relicensure. 20 CE's can be home study.
Registered Dental Hygienists - 22 CE's for relicensure. 11 CE's can be home study.
Per Statute 150-3.09(4c), only 12 hours of credit will be accepted per calendar day.
Licenses must be renewed every 2 years.
At Atlanta Dental, we have many opportunities for you to obtain the necessary CE’s. Below are some options that are currently on my website.
Check curing lights
Offices might not remember to check their curing lights. However, it’s one of the most important pieces of equipment in the dental office. There are a lot of problems that can develop if you are using a curing light that is not curing properly or not to manufacturer specifications.
If you would like your Atlanta Dental representative to come in to check your curing lights, you can request that free service by clicking below.
preventive maintenance Checks
There are some pieces of equipment in your office that bring life to your practice. If any of these items are not functioning, your dental office stops. Those items are located in your mechanical room. One is an air compressor and the other is a vacuum pump. It is always good to have a service technician do an annual check for those pieces of equipment. In addition, it’s always good for a service technician to perform an annual preventative maintenance check throughout the office. Our service technicians will look at all pieces of your equipment in the office to proactively maintain them before it becomes something that you have to react to when it possibly stops working.
Below is a link to a checklist that you can use in your office. It provides the things that you should do daily, weekly, monthly, and annually for the equipment in your office. It’s a great reference tool.
Shock waterlines
When I give OSHA training, dental teams are sometimes surprised to hear about a hidden issue lurking in their dental waterlines. The ADA wants your CFU (colony forming units) count to be less than 500. Below is a video that discusses the potential consequences of not maintaining your water lines.
There are a couple of ways to help protect your waterlines.
Shock every month and use tablets to maintain between shocks
Shock once a year and use a “straw” to maintain between yearly shocks
The straws have a lifespan of about 1 year depending on the volume of flow that runs through the lines. Below is a video that I recorded that goes over the straw method. In general, no matter which method you use, it’s very important to make sure that you test your water, shock, and maintain your dental water lines.
individual team member and salary review
Your team members are the lifeblood of your practice. They are critical to the success of your practice. An annual review will help identify the areas of improvement and/or evaluation for each individual.
When considering a new team member, think of the long-term success that person might have in the practice, not just trying to fill the gap. It’s also important that you meet both your financial objectives and their individual needs. If you are interested, you can obtain this year’s dentist report which shows each position’s hourly rates and annual salaries for each state. If you would like to obtain this report, click on the button below.
Plan your equipment needs
Has it happened to you? A piece of equipment you knew was going to stop working soon finally stopped for good. Maybe even after doing an estimate of repair, the costs were almost as expensive as buying a new one.
When we look at the life of dental equipment in an office, we must look at the ROI it should produce. Most likely, there are items in your dental office that might need to be replaced because of visual or functional reasons.
We offer a free equipment evaluation service that inspects your dental equipment. We have a form that we fill out which helps inventory your equipment, but also spotlights equipment that might need to be replaced in the near future. It prioritizes the equipment that you might want to start saving for before it stops working for you.
Check your dental supply plan and storage for efficiency
Very often, I walk into dental offices and find the storage closet in disarray. Items have no specific place; often times are hoarded in rooms by the dental team. There’s also the dentist that tries to do everything themselves which include ordering to save a couple grand throughout the year. And why would they not, it’s the one thing that is somewhat controllable. You can see the savings when you click on one item vs. another and it makes that dentist feel good. I get it!
However, the big picture is almost never considered. Can we agree that DSO’s might be good at running a business? You might not agree with their direction, but they typically are good with numbers. Do you know that almost all DSO’s use full service distributors? They value the technical service they receive as well as the competitive pricing.
There are things you don’t see in the background that a rep can help with and help you improve efficiencies. Too many times, I see an office have an all-star team member that controls their ordering. When that all-star team member leaves for various reasons, the dental office scrambles to find another person of the same caliber to fulfill the role. A dental rep can help set up protocols and systems within the office that is transferable no matter who is employed in the office. Having a system in place is vital in flourishing no matter if that all-star team member is there or decides to leave. One such system is pictured. We like to use tip-out bins so that what needs to be ordered is quickly visible to the team member. We also have labels ready for scanning on their phone or scanner. It creates a system that is quick so they can spend the other time being productive in the office. If you would like to know more, click below.
Turning in your dental scrap
Most offices have that container in a drawer that contains dental scrap. It contains valuable metals that you can turn in to refine. Below is a video of the refinery process. We partner with a couple different companies to help you get the most out of those containers. Many times, the money you receive from the containers can help pay for office holiday parties or part of the equipment that you might need in the office.
Some offices turn their containers into the “cash guy”. They will typically pay only on weight. Your dental scrap is worth much more than just the weight of the container. It’s recommended to have the material analyzed so you can know its true value!
Below is a video that explains the refining process…
Check your Emergency kit for expired items
Atlanta Dental is now your source for 3D Printing
Jacob Sigmon
Enter the world of 3d printing
The wHY
The nUMBERS
Take your mouse and move the circle for each procedure and the number of times you expect to print per month. It will determine the profit and cost for you. Also, a full report tab generates that you can click on once you enter the numbers per month.
We have 2 great options for your printing needs that allow you to use whichever printing materials you want.
Why Sprintray
The printer is specific to dental only
The finished product is fast and reliable
You are able to print ceramic crowns with more options coming in the near future
The footprint is not large and can fit in most dental situations
Return on investment is high and more options of what you can print are growing.
A wide array of accepted resins
AND
Why ACKURETTA
Multiple Size Build Plates, Small, Medium & Large
Small Build Plate will print a 3 unit bridge or 3 crowns in 15 – 18 minutes
One size Vat/Resin Tank for all build plates
There are 3 options of build platforms depending on what you are printing. The 3 options will help with less waste and decreased printing time
LCD Technology
49 microns
2 Year Warranty with Concierge Service
Designed for chairside and same day dentistry
95+% LED light uniformity, 49 microns
Open Architecture for all kinds of materials
If you would like to learn more at a live event coming to Savannah in May, click HERE
Opioid Prescribing in a Dental Practice
Jacob Sigmon
Renewal is every two years, with 2021 being a renewal year.
Here’s the information about the requirement below. The CE course will cover the required opioid course requirements to renew. Here are the requirements below.
One (1) hour of the minimum requirement shall include the impact of opioid abuse and/or the proper prescription writing and use of opioids in dental practice.
Licenses expire after December 31, 2021, and if a licensee fails to renew by that date, the renewal fee increases.
to register, click on the sign up button at the bottom of this page.
Are there any new requirements COVID-19 requirements released by OSHA?
Jacob Sigmon
Technically, no. OSHA’s new guidance is advisory in nature and creates no new legal obligations. However, one of President Biden’s first acts after being sworn in was to sign an Executive Order on Protecting Worker Health and Safety that directs OSHA to increase enforcement of existing agency standards and investigate whether a new standard for COVID-19 mitigation is needed. Given that, employers may want to consider the new guidelines a strong recommendation.
In a nutshell, OSHA recommends that employers and employees implement a COVID-19 prevention program that includes the following elements:
Masks and social distancing
A hazard assessment
Measures to limit the spread of the virus
Ways to identify (and send home) sick employees and policies for employee absences that don’t punish workers for staying home when sick
Communication of coronavirus policies and procedures in both English and the primary language of non-English speaking workers
Protections from retaliation for workers who raise coronavirus-related concerns
If you’re interested, you can learn more about the program here.
If your dental office needs customized OSHA training, I am available to set up a date to train your team. osha training is required yearly!
If you are interested about finding out more, Please fill out the form below so that I can contact you to discuss further details.
FULL DISCLOSURE:
THREAD is one of our Practice Life partners that helps dental offices with their human resource needs. Kara wrote the above information and sent this to her contacts. I am passing this information along through the form of this blog. More about Kara below:
Kara practiced employment law for five years and worked in Human Resources for several years prior to that. As an attorney, she worked on many wage and hour and discrimination claims in both state and federal court. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Oregon State University and earned her law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School.
COVID-19 Vaccine Office Policies and Vaccine Declination Form
Jacob Sigmon
I've have a sample Voluntary Vaccine Policy along with a Vaccine Declination Statement that Thread’s employment attorney created. I have a mandatory policy along with accommodation request forms if your office will be requiring the vaccine.
Fill out the information below and I will send the attachments.
To Do List For Reopening From Extended Shutdown
Jacob Sigmon
Paycheck Protection Program Information
Jacob Sigmon
Please consult with your financial advisor, attorney, and/or accountant for specific information about your business.
What is it?
According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and loan forgiveness are intended to provide economic relief to small businesses adversely impacted by Covid-19. The program permits the SBA to guarantee 100% of loans, as well as the potential to forgive up to the full principal amount of qualifying loans. The overall goal is to keep workers employed and paid.
When should I apply?
Loans are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is important to apply as soon as possible. The last day to apply for, and receive a loan is June 30, 2020.
How do I apply?
Fill out the SBA Loan application (link at the bottom of this document) and work with a SBA approved lender of choice to apply for the loan. Check your lender’s website for any specific information on how they are processing these loans.
Who is eligible to receive a loan under the PPP?
Businesses with 500 or fewer employees whose principal place of residence is the United States and who were in operation on February 15, 2020 are eligible. This includes sole proprietorships, independent contractors, certain non-profits and the self-employed.
What are the details of the loans?
Borrowers can only receive one PPP loan
Loans fully guaranteed by the SBA, no collateral or personal guarantees required
Loan amounts are 2.5 times average monthly “payroll costs”, not to exceed $10 Million
Term: 24 months (with maximum maturity of 10 years)
Interest Rate: currently 1% (not to exceed 4%)
Remaining loan payments deferred for 6 months
How much can I borrow?
Loan amounts are determined by a payroll-based formula that is defined in the Act. Generally, amounts are 2.5x an applicant’s monthly payroll cost, which can include employee benefits, mortgage interest or rent, and utilities. Applicants should carefully review pages 8-11 of the Interim Final Rule for the calculation formula, as well as specific costs to be excluded from calculations, including:
Compensation for an individual in excess of $100,000 / year
Payment to independent contractors (Independent Contractors can apply for PPP loans themselves)
Will the loan be forgiven?
Loans may be forgiven if they are used to cover payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent and utility costs in the eight weeks after the loan is granted equal to the same average payroll costs prior to February 15, 2020. Pages 13 – 14 of Interim Final Rule provide full details around forgiveness.
Helpful links
Loan Application: https://www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/PPP%20Lender%20Application%20Form_0.pdf
SBA Resources: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program-ppp
SBA Interim Final Rule: https://content.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020- 04/PPP--IFRN%20FINAL.pdf
Jacob Sigmon, with Atlanta Dental Supply, helps dental offices with all facets of running a practice successfully.
If you would like more information, please contact at jacobsigmon@atlantadental.com
Prepare Your Dental Office For COVID-19
Jacob Sigmon
DENTISTRY BEYOND THE SHUTDOWN:
Below are some ideas on how one office is planning to come back safer and stronger. Think about ways how you can help combat and improve your protective measures.
N95 masks must be worn by all clinical team members.
Currently we will re-use N95's 4 times until supplies are sufficient to dispose of with each patient use, by wearing a surgical mask over the N95. Each N95 will be stored in a paper bag with your name on it.
CDC Patient Disclosure and Temperature Check: Each patient will complete the pretreatment disclosure form, and we will take their temperature prior to treating them. Just like blood pressure check, add this to our list. Anyone exhibiting 100.0 degrees or higher will be re-appointed for another day, 14+ days or longer.
Oral Rinse: prior to ALL/EVERY dental appointment. Patients will gargle with 2 parts mouth wash, 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide for 60 seconds.
Use of Rubber Dam: Use of rubber dam under ALL aerosol creating situations is highly recommended. In addition, bathe the isolated teeth with chlorhexidine wash, prior to prepping with high speed drilling. Ivoclar Vivadent makes OptraDam which would be perfect for this situation.
Hygiene: Cavitron use only with HVAC or ISOLITE use. Saliva ejector is not sufficient.
HVAC and Aerosoles: The goals for actions 4, 5, and 6 are to limit the amount of aerosol that we allowed to escape from oral cavity. Techniques for assistance holding the vacuum, the angle and positioning the vacuum are all meant to capture the spray or aerosol and vacuum it away before we have a chance to inhale it. In addition, the DentAirVac system and Air Purification system noted later will also help.
OPERATORY PRE-PREP: Procedure set up in the operatory needs to be timely, prior to patient's visit obviously, but not left out for hours to allow room aerosols to settle on the exposed instruments and cassettes. Therefore room set up should be completed as close to the patient's visit time as possible, or draped/covered if there's a waiting time between set up and the actual appointment time.
CASSETTE: Wrap cassette for storage to keep them from aerosols within the clinical area.
OPERATORY CABINETS: Must remain closed during treatment and aerosol creation. Room set up needs to be complete prior to initiating a procedure.
Face Shields: Multiple use available for each team member or single use disposable. Recommend for high splatter situations.
Surgical Clean Air Systems: We will have 5 JADE units to be spread throughout operatory to help cleanse and decrease aerosol.
DentVacAir systems: We will receive 5 units. Like an HVAC system, it's a 12"x12"x15" vacuum on wheels with hepa and carbon filtration. It has an "elephant snout" that's placed next to the patient's mouth during high aerosol treatment situations.
Isolation gowns – disposable isolation gowns will be available for use under high aerosol situations.
Hair Bouffants – available for high aerosol situations. Disposable.
COVID Testing Hopeful Future Plan: We can test patients with an oral saliva/mucus swab; test takes 5 minutes to show results. We can screen our team and our patients.
Jacob Sigmon, with Atlanta Dental Supply, helps dental offices with all facets of running a practice successfully.
If you would like more information, please contact at jacobsigmon@atlantadental.com