Monday, December 28, 2020
2020 is a year we won’t soon forget. The COVID-19 pandemic changed so many aspects of daily life and how businesses are operated. Dental practices certainly weren’t immune, with the pandemic shutting down offices across the country and forcing clinicians to rethink how they work. Dentists had to be flexible and find ways to keep their patients and team members safe while also staying productive.
Three of this year’s 10 most-read articles focused on coronavirus, offering guidance to help dentists navigate through the pandemic in the early days, to help them successfully reopen their practices and to better understand PPE protocols. New product announcements on face shields and sterilization equipment also were popular, reflecting the industry’s focus on safety. Of course, other topics also caught readers’ interest, including LED curing lights, composites, electric toothbrushes and equipment.
As 2020 comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on what was a very different year and to think ahead to the opportunities that await in 2021. Here’s a look back at our most popular posts of 2020:
10. Coronavirus Guidance for Dental Professionals
Back in March, the ADA recommended dentists postpone all elective procedures and only focus on emergencies. Many dentists were looking for advice during those confusing times, making this article, which listed helpful resources with the most updated information, a popular read.
9. New Dental Product- HoverShield Clear Acrylic Shield from Molar Media Mount
The HoverShield is a clear acrylic shield that mounts to existing dental lights via the Molar Media Mount, and is designed to protect patients, team members and clinicians from splatter. The COVID-19 pandemic left dentists looking for ways to keep everyone safe during aerosol-generating procedures, and that’s exactly what this type of product provides.
8. Quick Picks- LED Curing Lights
LED curing lights are among the most commonly used pieces of equipment in a dental practice, so it makes sense an article comparing different options would get attention.
7. New Dental Product- 3M Attest Mini Auto-Reader 490M Sterilization Monitoring Solution
The 3M Attest Mini Auto-reader 490M enables dentists to quickly test and monitor sterilizers in-house, providing results in 24 minutes. These tests monitor the killing of a large population of resistant microorganisms and lets dentists know their sterilization cycle parameters have been met, making this an attractive product.
6. New Dental Product- Colgate Plaqless Pro Smart Electric Toothbrush
Introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, the Colgate® Plaqless Pro smart electric toothbrush uses optic sensor technology to detect biofilm buildup in the mouth. The brush provides precise information, in real time, that’s specific to each person’s mouth and brushing style. The technology is intriguing, making this a popular post.
5. New Dental Product- FIT SA Bioactive Self-Adhesive Flowable Composite from Shofu Dental
FIT SA is a bioactive self-adhesive flowable composite that features bioactive Giomer Technology. With this comprehensive restorative, there’s no need for the technique sensitive bonding procedure, making this a product that can boost efficiency. The nano-hybrid bioactive self-adhesive flowable composite is designed for use as a liner, small Class I (PRR), Class III, and Class V, and other non-load-bearing restorations.
4. ADA Offers Guidance on PPE As Dentists Prepare to Reopen Practices
Once dental offices began to open back up in April and May, there was some confusion about PPE. This article offers guidance and resources to help dentists navigate new requirements and develop a plan for their office, which can still be useful even now.
3. Convergent Dental Releases New Sleep Application Solea Sleep
From the company behind the 9.3 µm CO2 all-tissue Solea laser, Solea Sleep is a rapid relief treatment for adults who snore. The laser technology allows dentists to tighten tissue in the soft palate with a five-minute treatment that immediately reduces the vibrations that cause patients to snore. Typically, such a procedure takes three or four 30-minute treatments, making this a time saver and efficiency booster.
2. 6 Tips to Help Dentists Get Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
This article provided dentists with helpful advice on how to get through the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, from leveraging technology to communicating with patients to recognizing financial opportunities.
1. Watch Video- Aeras Star 500 Elite from DentalEZ
This year’s top post is actually a video. The Aeras Star 500 Elite handpiece features a technology platform that can collect data, share information and streamline standard-of-care processes. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you should.
2020 was a year of change, and this year’s top posts reflect that. Great opportunities await in the New Year. Here’s to a happy, healthy and productive 2021.