EIN Presswire: Dental Live Feed Press Releases

ASC X12 Not Recommending 6020 TR3s to DSMO for HIPAA Adoption

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:19:00 +0000

Accredited Standards Committee X12 (ASC X12) announces plans for the 006020 (6020™) TR3s. After meeting with health care industry stakeholders and assessing the current and planned health care industry initiatives, ASC X12 will not recommend its 6020 Type 3 Technical Reports (TR3s) to the Designated Standards Maintenance Organizations (DSMO) for consideration of adoption under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

ASC X12 doesn't typically make decisions such as this until after final publication; however, it believes the health care industry is better served at this time by a reassurance that the 5010 implementations will have time to mature before another version is recommended for adoption. Even though the 6020™ versions will not be recommended for adoption, it is critical that health care industry stakeholders review the 6020™ TR3s currently posted for public comment and provide comments to ASC X12 as the 6020™ version will serve as the basis for the next ASC X12 version to be recommended for adoption.

Cathy Sheppard, Chair of ASC X12, said, "Although the 6020™ TR3s include revisions that satisfy a significant number of the business needs and requests brought forward by industry participants, ASC X12 recognizes that the industry is not ready to begin another implementation cycle at this time. ASC X12 will continue to solicit feedback on the 5010 and 6020 ™versions as it begins work on the next development cycle and we look forward to accommodating additional business needs with the next published versions of our work products."

The draft 6020™ Technical Reports, Change Summaries, online conferences and instructions for submitting comments can be accessed via http://forums.x12.org. The Public Comment Period closes on March 07, 2012 at 5:00pm EST.

About ASC X12
ASC X12, chartered by the American National Standards Institute for more than 30 years, develops and maintains EDI and CICA standards along with XML schemas which drive business processes globally. The diverse membership of ASC X12 includes technologists and business process experts, encompassing health care, insurance, transportation, finance, government, supply chain and other industries. For additional information, visit www.x12.org.

PR Department
(703) 970-4480
Email Contact

An Industry First: PeaceHealth Implements RTLS in Labor and Delivery

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:16:00 +0000

Versus Technology, Inc. (Versus) (PINKSHEETS: VSTI) is pleased to announce another expansion of Real-time Locating System (RTLS) services to PeaceHealth's Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. As an organization, PeaceHealth relies on Versus to support location and patient flow automation within several of its emergency department environments as well as its anesthesia clinic and house-wide at Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend in support of OR workflows, house-wide asset tracking and nurse call automation. PeaceHealth also is utilizing Versus' RTLS data for a number of very important continuous improvement projects.

PeaceHealth's staff has been the driving force behind delivering greater value to the organization using the Versus Advantages™ RTLS for clinical automation, improved communication, greater situational awareness and better visibility of patients, staff and assets. The latest RTLS expansions include new workflow designs for the Labor and Delivery department and the Mother Baby Unit.

After months of functioning in their new Labor and Delivery department, PeaceHealth staff wanted additional visibility into the patient care areas. It was difficult to know where doctors and nurses were within patient rooms and throughout the department. Staff wanted to address what they perceived to be a patient safety issue, but also be more efficient and more responsive. They needed a solution to help visualize patient and staff movement within their very large and expansive department. PeaceHealth trusted Versus to provide this visibility and lean process management based on the efficiency and communication gains they were already experiencing in the Emergency Department.

Already familiar with Versus and its ability to adapt to the facility's existing workflows, the Labor and Delivery department outlined their workflows and what they hoped to capture utilizing the Versus Advantages solution. They approached Versus, asking the company to automate the functionality they had outlined. Versus responded with a new, custom application that provides the Labor and Delivery department with a view of patient and staff locations, room status, and the status of certain orders like epidurals and lab tests. These new views communicate to staff the status of laboring moms whether in pre-labor or active delivery.

These new tools allow staff to quickly locate one another and communicate patient status in real time without having to physically search the floor or pick up the phone. "The system is very intuitive. Everyone utilizes it," says Becky Moore, RN. "There's no way to explain what a difference it makes being able to communicate automatically via the boards."

Cindy Hunter, RN, shared a go-live situation which says it all: "There was a serious post-partum hemorrhage followed rapidly by a second incident that required the Post-Partum Hemorrhage cart (like a crash cart but with specific equipment needed for post-partum hemorrhage). The staff involved in the first incident didn't know about the second one and vice versa. The technician who was sent for the PPH cart used the Versus system to locate the cart quickly in a patient room and retrieve it for her team. The ability to locate the PPH cart quickly saved valuable time and much anxiety for all involved."

The Versus Advantages solution helps improve visibility and care progression. "Our goal," Susan Pouzar, Vice President of Sales for Versus, explains, "is to bring situational awareness to staff to improve safety, efficiency and satisfaction for both patients and staff."

The solution has been so popular, expansion into the Mother Baby Unit has already occurred. The Mother Baby Unit is utilizing the Versus Advantages solution for similar reasons, though views and workflows are different. For example, the Mother Baby Unit has custom iconography to allow staff to quickly identify whether Mom has a boy, girl, twins, other multiples and whether an adoptive family is also involved.

About Sacred Heart Medical Center
Sacred Heart Medical Center is one of the largest hospitals between Portland and San Francisco and a regional referral center serving as a Level II trauma center for an eight-county region. Key services for the nonprofit hospital include the Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute, Neurosciences Institute with a Gamma Knife Center, Gerontology Institute, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and specialized surgical services. Sacred Heart Medical Center has two campuses: RiverBend in Springfield, Oregon, and University District, located in neighboring Eugene, Oregon. For more information, visit the RiverBend online press kit at www.peacehealth.org/newsroom.

About Versus Technology, Inc.
Established in 1988, Versus Technology, Inc. specializes in real-time location systems (RTLS) for health care. Used for enterprise patient tracking, bed management, asset tracking, and nurse call automation, Versus Advantages™ improves patient flow and documentation of caregiver and patient interactions, while enhancing communication and efficiency. Exclusively endorsed by the American Hospital Association, the Versus Advantages infrared (IR) and Active RFID solution is responsible for clinical-grade location and automation at a number of hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities worldwide. To learn more about Versus Technology, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: VSTI), our technology and client successes, visit www.versustech.com and take the Advantages Tour.

Safe Harbor Provision
This release may include forward-looking statements which "bespeak caution," and which are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. The statements are made only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Media Contact:
Versus Technology, Inc.
Stephanie Bertschy
Director of Marketing
877.983.7787
Email Contact

Investor/Analyst Contact:
Versus Technology, Inc.
Joseph Winowiecki
Chief Financial Officer
231.946.5868
Email Contact

CytoSorbents to Exhibit at the 2012 Symposium of Intensive Medicine and Intensive Care

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

CytoSorbents Corporation (OTCBB: CTSO), a critical care focused company using blood purification to treat life-threatening illnesses, announced that it will exhibit at the 2012 Symposium of Intensive Medicine and Intensive Care from February 22-24, 2012 in Bremen, Germany. CytoSorbents will be available to discuss its CytoSorb™ technology in Booth # A7 in the Bremen Exhibition and Conference Centre. This conference attracts an estimated 4,000 participants and is the largest independent German association event to focus on critical care and intensive care medicine.

Dr. Phillip Chan, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are pleased to participate in this conference that assembles key German thought leaders and physicians in critical care medicine. We continue to increase the market visibility and availability of our CytoSorb™ extracorporeal cytokine filter ahead of our broader market launch in Germany planned for this spring. There continues to be strong physician interest in the ability to reduce cytokine storm in a variety of serious conditions, including sepsis, burn injury, trauma, lung injury and pancreatitis. This interest has extended into a number of new additional applications where cytokines are elevated, which we will detail in the future as they continue to develop. We remain very excited about the new critical care treatment options that CytoSorb™ may provide."

About CytoSorbents, CytoSorb™, and HemoDefend

CytoSorbents Corporation is a critical care focused therapeutic device company using blood purification to treat life-threatening illnesses. Its purification technology is based on biocompatible, highly porous polymer beads that can actively remove toxic substances from blood and other bodily fluids by pore capture and adsorption. In March 2011, CytoSorb™, the Company's flagship product, achieved European regulatory approval as an extracorporeal cytokine filter, and can now be sold throughout the European Union (E.U.) under the CE Mark to be used in clinical situations where cytokines are elevated. The goal of CytoSorb™ is to modulate the immune system by removing excessive cytokines, often called "cytokine storm", in critically-ill patients that can lead to deadly inflammation, multiple organ failure, immune dysfunction, and often death in common illnesses such as sepsis, trauma, burn injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and pancreatitis. CytoSorb™ has demonstrated statistically significant reductions in mortality in septic patients at high risk of death and is now available for sale in Germany for the treatment of critical care illnesses under a controlled market release, with a planned broad product launch in Germany anticipated for the first half of 2012 and availability in other E.U. countries, assuming adequate and timely funding, and continued positive results from our clinical studies. HemoDefend is a development-stage blood purification technology platform for the blood transfusion industry intended to reduce transfusion reactions and safeguard the quality and safety of blood products. The HemoDefend technology utilizes the Company's polymer bead technology to remove many substances, such as antibodies, free hemoglobin and inflammatory mediators, that can cause potentially serious and sometimes fatal transfusion reactions. CytoSorb™ and HemoDefend are just two of a number of different resins the Company has designed for various medical applications, including improved dialysis, the potential treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, rhabdomyolysis in trauma, removal of chemotherapy drugs during treatment of cancer with high dose regional chemotherapy, drug detoxification, and others. Additional information is available for download on the Company's website: www.cytosorbents.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release are not promises or guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. We caution you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein. CytoSorbents Corporation and CytoSorbents, Inc believe that its primary risk factors include, but are not limited to: obtaining government approvals including required FDA and additional CE Mark approvals; ability to successfully develop commercial operations; dependence on key personnel; acceptance of the Company's medical devices in the marketplace; the outcome of pending and potential litigation; compliance with governmental regulations; reliance on research and testing facilities of various universities and institutions; the ability to obtain adequate and timely financing in the future when needed; product liability risks; limited manufacturing experience; limited marketing, sales and distribution experience; market acceptance of the Company's products; competition; unexpected changes in technologies and technological advances; and other factors detailed in the Company's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 31, 2011, which is available at http://www.sec.gov.

Contact:
CytoSorbents Corporation
David Lamadrid
Chief Financial Officer
(732) 329-8885 ext. 816
DavidL@cytosorbents.com

PearlBrite(TM) Adds Dr. Andrea Alexandrian, DMD to Its Medical Advisory Board

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0000

PearlBrite™ Concepts, Inc. ("PearlBrite"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Entertainment Group, Inc. ("Delta Entertainment") (OTCQB: DENG) (OTCBB: DENG), has added Dr. Andrea Alexandrian, DMD to its Medical Advisory Board management team.

Dr. Andrea Alexandrian, DMD ("Dr. Alexandrian") is the Associate Director of Cosmetic Dentistry of Dental Plus California http://www.dentalplusca.com.

Dr. Alexandrian received her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida at Gainesville, FL in Bachelors of Science and Marketing in 1994. She received her bachelor's degree in Pre-Dental Education from the University of North Florida at Jacksonville, FL in 1997. She earned her D.M.D. from the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2001. She worked at Belmont Dental Esthetics in Belmont, MA from 2001 - 2003 specializing in Cosmetic and General Dentistry with the ability to handle demanding cases with emphasis all on phases of dentistry including but not limited to treatment planning, Cosmetic Restorative Dentistry, Esthetics, Posthodontics, Periodontics, and Endodontics. She's worked at Dental Plus California since 2003 specializing in Cosmetic Dentistry with an emphasis on Veneers, Lava Porcelain Crowns, Cosmetic Inlay, Onlay Restorations and Laser Bleaching. She places an emphasis on patient education, the importance of Esthetics in Dentistry, treatment planning and utilizing the latest techniques.

Dr. Alexandrian is certified with both California and Massachusetts Dental Licenses.

Dr. Alexandrian is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association as well as the Armenian Dental Association of California.

"As a dental professional I can attest that dental esthetics can have a profound impact on a person's self confidence and positive self-image. The PearlBrite concept and method of teeth whitening is an innovative approach of providing uncompromisingly high quality teeth whitening in a setting where customer convenience, comfort and total satisfaction are of the utmost importance. PearlBrite is the best guarantee for a beautiful, bright smile," said Dr. Alexandrian.

"With pride and great enthusiasm, I am thrilled to welcome my longtime colleague, Dr. Andrea Alexandrian, to the PearlBrite team. Her expertise and dedication to the art of cosmetic dentistry will be an invaluable resource for PearlBrite and will further develop this amazing product," said Dr. Nina M. Gray, Chairman of PearlBrites Medical Advisory Board.

About Delta Entertainment Group, Inc.

Primarily a holding company for its subsidiaries; PearlBrite™ Concepts, Inc., www.pearlbriteconcepts.com, a non-dental cosmetic teeth whitening company; Captivating Concepts Corp., a producer and marketer of cosmetics including, but not limited to, color cosmetics such as nail polish and lipstick through mass market retailers; Creative Music Group, Inc., www.cr8tivemusic.com, a manager, promoter and developer of recording artists in the entertainment industry.

Contacts

Delta Entertainment Group, Inc.
Leonard Tucker
561-414-0456
lenny@pearlbriteconcepts.com
http://www.pearlbriteconcepts.com
http://www.pearlbriteathomekit.com

Prospect, Kentucky, Dentist Christian Hahn Honors National Children's Dental Health Month with Free Preventative Sealant

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:15:40 +0000

Organic dentist offers free dental sealant to children aged 3 to 13.

PROSPECT, KY, February 07, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Ideal Dentistry's Christian Hahn, DDS, is honoring the American Dental Association's February National Children's Dental Health Month, by helping to ensure a cavity-free future for children.

In February and March, the Prospect-area organic dentist, is offering free dental sealants to children who are members of the Ideal Smile Care Program, and are between the ages of 3 and 13.

The Ideal Smile Care Program is Ideal Dentistry's membership program designed to allow patients access to premium quality dentistry at affordable rates. The low cost of the program is usually recouped within the first visit or two.

"Sealants, placed correctly, have reduced the incidence of decay significantly" Dr. Hahn said. "As soon as they were old enough, I put sealants in the grooves of my children's teeth."

A dental sealant, is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. A thin layer of plastic is into the grooves of teeth where decay usually begins and immediately hardened with a special LED light.

According to The College of Dental Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, dental sealants can provide 100 percent protection from cavities or dental decay on a tooth's chewing surface. Sealants are simple and require no drilling. The process is pain free and Ideal Dentistry in Prospect, Kentucky, uses BPA-free sealants.

"There is no discomfort associated with placing sealants," Dr. Hahn explained. "You won't even know they are there." On reason Hahn recommends the procedure is that sealing a tooth, costs less than filling one.

Hahn is a magna cum laude graduate of University of Southern California and an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist in Prospect, Kentucky. His cosmetic dentistry, has been spotlighted on both The Discovery and Learning channel and in cosmetic dentistry journals.

To learn more about Dr. Hahn and Ideal Dentistry, visit www.idealdentistry.com or call 502-228-4585.

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Young Innovations, Inc. Announces Record EPS for the Quarter and Record Sales and EPS for the Year

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:27:24 +0000

Young Innovations, Inc. Announces Record EPS for the Quarter and Record Sales and EPS for the Year

PR Newswire

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Young Innovations, Inc. (NASDAQ – YDNT) today announced record earnings per share for the fourth quarter and record sales and EPS for the year.

Sales for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $26.7 million, an increase of 3.2% from the $25.9 million reported for the fourth quarter of 2010. Income from operations for the fourth quarter increased 5.1% to $6.1 million from $5.8 million in the prior year quarter. Net income for the fourth quarter increased 14.8% to $4.3 million from $3.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2010. Diluted earnings per share for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $0.54, an increase of 14.9% over the $0.47 reported in the prior year quarter. In the quarter, diluted earnings per share were affected by equity compensation expense of $0.04, compared to $0.03 in the prior year quarter. Diluted earnings per share for the fourth quarter were positively affected by other income of $0.04 from the Company's investment in a private equity fund. Diluted shares outstanding were 7.9 million for the quarter, down 1.2% from 8.0 million in the prior year quarter.

Sales for the year ended December 31, 2011 were $106.2 million, up 3.3% from $102.8 million in the prior year. Income from operations increased 5.8% to $24.4 million in 2011 from $23.0 million in the prior year. Net income for fiscal year 2011 was $16.5 million, up 10.1% from $14.9 million in the prior year. Diluted earnings per share were $2.05 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, an increase of 10.2% from $1.86 in 2010. During the year, diluted earnings per share were affected by equity compensation expense of $0.15, compared to $0.14 in the prior year. Diluted earnings per share for 2011 were positively affected by other income of $0.08 from the Company's investment in a private equity fund. Diluted shares outstanding were 8.0 million for the year, unchanged from the prior year.

We are pleased that sales finished the year up 3% in a challenging economic environment. Sales growth reflected solid demand for our consumable product offering throughout the year. In addition, we continued to experience increased demand for diagnostic products following strong growth in 2010.

During the quarter, we remained focused on executing our strategy for growth. We successfully launched a new line of disposable prophylaxis angles and our recent introduction of the Encompass digital panoramic system continued to gain traction in the market. In addition, we completed the consolidation of certain administrative functions and light manufacturing into our Algonquin facility.

As previously announced, in addition to the quarterly cash dividend of $0.04 per share, the Company issued a special cash dividend of $1.00 per share in the fourth quarter of 2011. Our strong balance sheet and cash flows enabled us to pay this dividend to our shareholders while still preserving significant capacity to invest in strategic growth opportunities as we ended the year with a modest net cash balance.

We believe that our organization continued to strengthen throughout the year. We successfully launched new products across our consumable and diagnostic product lines. We improved operating efficiency across the business through production automation and the consolidation of various administrative functions. We also remained focused on enhancing relationships with our distribution partners as well as the end users of our products. Although we are mindful of the impact a weak economy has on the overall demand for dental services, we continue to believe that the execution of our strategy will position the Company for future growth and success.

A conference call has been scheduled for Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. Central Time and can be accessed through InterCall at http://tinyurl.com/Quarter42011 or the Company's website, www.ydnt.com.

Young Innovations develops, manufactures and markets supplies and equipment used by dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants and consumers. The Company's consumables product offering includes disposable and metal prophy angles, prophy cups and brushes, dental micro-applicators, moisture control products, infection control products, dental handpieces (drills) and related components, endodontic systems, orthodontic toothbrushes, flavored examination gloves, children's toothbrushes, and children's toothpastes. In addition, the Company offers a line of diagnostic products that includes panoramic X-ray machines and related supplies. The Company believes it is a leading U.S. manufacturer or distributor of prophy angles and cups, liquid surface disinfectants, dental micro-applicators and obturation units designed for warm, vertical condensation.

Investors are cautioned that this press release as well as other reports and oral statements by Company officials may contain certain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation and Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements which are predictive in nature, which depend upon or refer to future events or conditions and which include words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," or similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and the Company makes no commitment to update or disclose any revisions to forward-looking statements, or any facts, events or circumstances after the date hereof that may bear upon forward-looking statements. Because such statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual actions and strategies and the timing and expected results thereof may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Young Innovations, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income
(In thousands, except earnings per share data)
(Unaudited)
(In Thousands USD)

	Three Months Ended			Twelve Months Ended
	December 31,			December 31,
	2011	2010	Change	2011	2010	Change

Net Sales	$ 26,681	$ 25,860	3.2%	$ 106,230	$ 102,842	3.3%
Cost of Goods Sold	$ 12,196	$ 11,678	4.4%	$ 47,521	$ 45,681	4.0%
Gross Profit	$ 14,485	$ 14,182	2.1%	$ 58,709	$ 57,161	2.7%
% of Net Sales	54.3%	54.8%		55.3%	55.6%

Selling, General and Administrative Expense	$ 8,349	$ 8,342	0.1%	$ 34,349	$ 34,141	0.6%
% of Net Sales	31.3%	32.3%		32.3%	33.2%

Income from Operations	6,136	5,840	5.1%	24,360	23,020	5.8%
% of Net Sales	23.0%	22.6%		22.9%	22.4%

Interest expense, net	58	59		236	322
Other income (expense), net	477	21		1,046	(107)

Income Before Taxes	6,555	5,802	13.0%	25,170	22,805	10.4%

Provision for Income Taxes	2,240	2,042		8,717	7,868

Net Income	$ 4,315	$ 3,760	14.8%	$ 16,453	$ 14,937	10.1%
% of Net Sales	16.2%	14.5%		15.5%	14.5%

Basic Earnings Per Share	$ 0.54	$ 0.47	14.9%	$ 2.06	$ 1.87	10.2%

Basic Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	7,931	7,966		7,993	7,969

Earnings Per Share (Diluted)	$ 0.54	$ 0.47	14.9%	$ 2.05	$ 1.86	10.2%

Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	7,936	8,036		8,033	8,037

YI Consolidated
Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010
(In Thousands USD)


		(Unaudited)
		December 31	December 31
Assets		2011	2010
Current assets
	Cash	$ 1,031	$ 741
	Accounts receivable, net	12,066	11,721
	Inventories	17,161	17,260
	Other current assets	4,729	4,861
Total current assets		34,987	34,583

Property, plant and equipment, net		32,272	33,162
Goodwill		80,254	80,289
Intangible assets		11,130	11,579
Other assets		1,143	2,012

Total assets		$ 159,786	$ 161,625

Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$ 9,134	$ 10,700
Total current liabilities		9,134	10,700

Long-term debt		650	6,100
Long-term secured borrowing		9	56
Deferred income taxes		19,534	17,417
Other noncurrent liabilities		206	248
Total liabilities		29,533	34,521

Stockholders' equity
	Common stock	102	102
	Additional paid-in capital	24,708	24,190
	Retained earnings	158,647	151,458
	Common stock in treasury, at cost	(52,924)	(48,484)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	(280)	(162)
Total stockholders' equity		130,253	127,104

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		$ 159,786	$ 161,625

SOURCE Young Innovations, Inc.

Young Innovations, Inc. Board of Directors Declares Quarterly Dividend and Authorizes Share Repurchase Program

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:26:38 +0000

Young Innovations, Inc. Board of Directors Declares Quarterly Dividend and Authorizes Share Repurchase Program

PR Newswire

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Young Innovations, Inc. (NASDAQ: YDNT) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share, payable March 15, 2012 to all shareholders of record on February 15, 2012. In addition, the Board of Directors also authorized the repurchase of up to 500,000 shares of the Company's common stock. This authorization, which will expire on February 28, 2013, replaces the current authorization which is scheduled to expire on July 31, 2012.

SOURCE Young Innovations, Inc.

MEDIA ALERT: Injectable progesterone contraceptives may be associated with poor periodontal health

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:16:03 +0000

MEDIA ALERT: Injectable progesterone contraceptives may be associated with poor periodontal health

PR Newswire

CHICAGO, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Injectable progesterone contraceptives may be associated with poor periodontal health, according to research in the Journal of Periodontology. The study found that women who are currently taking depotmedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injectable contraceptive, or have taken DMPA in the past, are more likely to have indicators of poor periodontal health, including gingivitis and periodontitis, than women who have never taken the injectable contraceptive. DMPA is a long-lasting progestin-only injectable contraceptive administered intermuscularly every three months.

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease and can lead to tooth loss. Additionally, research has associated gum disease with other chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

The data for this study were obtained from the NHANES 1999-2004 public use datasets. The participants chosen were non-pregnant, premenopausal women aged 15-44 who had provided complete DMPA usage data, indicating current usage of DMPA, past usage of DMPA, or no usage of DMPA at all. All participants received a dental examination that noted clinical attachment (CA) loss, periodontal pocket assessment at two or three sites per tooth, and presence of gingival bleeding.

After adjusting for age, race, education, poverty income level, and smoking status, the study found that current and past DMPA users had significantly increased periodontal pockets, gingival bleeding, and CA loss than women who have never used DMPA. Current DMPA users were more likely to have gingivitis, while past DMPA users were more likely to have periodontitis.

According to Dr. Pamela McClain, President of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and a practicing periodontist in Aurora, Colorado, women currently taking DMPA or that have used DMPA in the past should pay careful attention to their teeth and gums. "Hormones can play a role in woman's periodontal health. These findings suggest that women that use, or have used, a hormone-based injectable contraception such as DMPA may have increased odds of poor periodontal health. I would encourage women that use or previously used this form of contraception to maintain excellent oral care, and to be sure to see a dental professional for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation on an annual basis."

For more information about periodontal disease, visit perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists - specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry's experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,400 members worldwide.

SOURCE American Academy of Periodontology

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:37:51 +0000

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

PR Newswire

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Any type of injury to your teeth or gums should not be ignored. Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. To stay prepared, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) suggests keeping your dentist's emergency phone number readily available and pack an emergency dental-care kit, including gauze, saline solution and a small, sealable container.

Dr. Steven Parrett, a PDA member dentist in Chambersburg, describes a dental emergency as a condition involving the teeth, gums, dental appliances or restorations.

"If a sudden injury or accident occurs involving your mouth, call your dentist immediately," Dr Parrett said. "It will make it easier for your dentist to provide better treatment with chances for better results."

PDA recommends that you become familiar with the following dental emergency procedures to stay prepared:

Broken Tooth: Immediately rinse your mouth with warm water to wash away any impurities. Place ice on the injury area of the face to reduce swelling. If possible, find and save any tooth pieces. Immediately call a dentist.
Cracked Tooth: Though tiny cracks are common and tend not to cause problems, more severe cracks may require dental treatment. A cracked tooth is indicated by a sharp pain when you bite down or chew food and acute sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet or sour foods. If you experience these symptoms, avoid chewing with that side of your mouth and contact a dentist as soon as possible to determine necessary treatment.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Immediately find the tooth and rinse it in water, holding it by the crown (the part you see when you look in your mouth), not the root. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any attached tissue. If possible, insert and hold the tooth in its original socket. Otherwise, place the tooth in a container of milk. Immediately see a dentist.
Jaw Injury: If you believe your jaw is injured or broken, immediately place ice on the affected area and go to a dentist or hospital emergency room.
Tongue, Lip or Cheek Injury: Clean the injured area and immediately apply ice to reduce swelling. If bleeding occurs, apply direct pressure to the affected area with a clean cloth. If bleeding persists, proceed to a hospital emergency room immediately.
Broken Braces or Wires: If the broken piece is easily removable, it may be taken out. Broken pieces that do not cause pain do not require immediate attention. If a broken piece causes pain, cover sharp ends with dental wax, gauze or chewing gum. If a piece of wire is stuck in the tongue, gums or cheek, do not remove it and see a dentist immediately.
Toothache: If you experience pain in a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to cleanse the area. Use dental floss to gently clean around the aching tooth to remove any lodged debris. If the pain continues, contact a dentist.

"Delaying or ignoring any changes in the mouth can result in having more costly treatment later to remedy the problem, rather than just a minor repair done at the time of the change," Dr. Parrett said. "Don't delay, especially if a pain is severe or persistent. It may just be a popcorn hull lodged deep in the gum between the teeth, or it could be a root abscess that will require hospitalization if left untreated."

It is just as important to follow the above procedures if a child injures his or her baby teeth, also called primary teeth. Other than biting and chewing, baby teeth perform several important functions. They aid in proper speech development, development of the jaw and facial muscles and help provide nutrition.

"Baby teeth act as guides and place holders for the alignment of the permanent teeth. In some instances, an injury to a baby tooth can have long term effects on the tooth bud of the developing permanent tooth in the jaw bone," Dr. Parrett explains.

About the Pennsylvania Dental Association
Founded in 1868, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) is comprised of approximately 6,000 member dentists. It is a constituency of the American Dental Association (ADA), the largest and oldest national dental society in the world. PDA's mission is to improve the public health, promote the art and science of dentistry and represent the interests of its member dentists and their patients. PDA is the voice of dentistry in Pennsylvania. For more information on PDA, visit our website at www.padental.org.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Dental Association

A Breathtaking Valentine's Day Gift: Theodent™ Chocolate-based Toothpaste

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 +0000

A Breathtaking Valentine's Day Gift: Theodent™ Chocolate-based Toothpaste

PR Newswire

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Question: What do a dozen roses, a romantic dinner for two and a tube of toothpaste have in common? Answer: If the toothpaste is Theodent™ chocolate-based toothpaste, they could make your Valentine's Day the sweetest ever.

Theodent™ toothpaste is a twist on the traditional Valentine's Day gift of chocolate. Theodent™ neither tastes nor looks like chocolate but its active ingredient is extracted from cocoa and research has shown that it benefits teeth and gums. Theodent™ makers patented this healthful chocolate extract and named it Rennou™, a propriety blend that works with the chocolate extract plus other minerals that work together to strengthen teeth.

"Instead of giving your Valentine a box of chocolates that is full of sugar and fat, consider giving him or her Theodent to brighten and whiten their smile," urges Theodent™ President and Chief Executive Officer Arman Sadeghpour PhD.

In studies conducted by researchers at the LSU School of Dentistry, the University of New Orleans and Tulane University, Rennou™ was found to stimulate larger unit crystal growth in tooth enamel. Rennou™ causes the calcium and phosphorus that is also contained in human saliva to stimulate new enamel growth. According to this groundbreaking research, Rennou could be the first viable non-toxic alternative to fluoride.

"Theodent™ is the culmination of thirty years of research and its effectiveness has been verified by two issued United States patents and a third worldwide patent pending," Sadeghpour said. "Rennou™ is a non-toxic revolutionary new additive to Theodent™ toothpaste and is FDA 'GRAS' – Generally Regarded as Safe – the agency's standard for food additives."

Theodent™ Classic ($9.99 suggested retail) hit store shelves at Whole Foods Markets during the first week of January. Theodent™ 300, an extra strength and luxury version ($99.99), for super-sensitive teeth, will be marketed to select cosmetic dentists and medical professionals. Theodent™ is available online at www.theodent.com and also at Whole Foods Markets in 20 states and Canada including Ontario and British Columbia. It is available in Whole Foods Markets in: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin.

Despite the fact that it is an extract of chocolate, Theodent™ has a fresh, minty taste. "Theodent™ does not contain sugar or cocoa fat and bears no resemblance in taste to chocolate candy," Sadeghpour stated. It is safe for adults and children of all ages.

SOURCE Theodent

NOHO Dental Group Offers a Dental Package for New Patients

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

NOHO Dental Group Offers a Dental Package for New Patients

PR Newswire

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Bijan Afar of NOHO Dental Group announces a special package for new patients which includes a dental exam and x-rays for only $49.00. Dr. Afar, North Hollywood dentist, makes this special offer available to all patients who are not currently being treated at NOHO Dental Group.

A dentist in North Hollywood for many years, Dr. Afar specializes in various types of preventative and restorative dentistry treatments, particularly veneers, porcelain crowns and implants. Dr. Afar's current special offer, which includes a professional dental exam, will allow new patients the opportunity to check out NOHO Dental Group.

There are many North Hollywood cosmetic dentists specializing in restorative dentistry, but Dr. Afar also works in preventative care. Planning for complete dental care involves not only correcting immediate problems but preventing future ones, so regular exams and dental cleanings are important.

Dr. Afar's treatment protocols involve a great deal of preventative care along with the placement of restorative devices or use of cosmetic treatments. For example, Dr. Afar offers Zoom whitening, a patented treatment which brightens teeth and removes stains. However, Dr. Afar also offers routine cleanings which will prepare teeth for a product such as Zoom, and allow it to work at its best.

Teeth whitening is not the only procedure at NOHO Dental Group designed for whitening smiles. Porcelain veneers, a specialty of Dr. Afar, create permanently white results and are extremely durable and stain-resistant. Dental veneers are a much more long-term solution to teeth whitening concerns than gel solutions.

For patients who need orthodontic treatment, Dr. Afar also offers Invisalign, a teeth-straightening system which utilizes clear plastic trays instead of traditional metal braces. Invisalign patients can eat and brush their teeth without the worrisome problems associated with metal braces, as the Invisalign trays can be removed for these activities. Further, Invisalign is invisible in the mouth, providing a more pleasing cosmetic appearance.

Contact Dr. Afar, Dentist North Hollywood

To learn more about the services and special promotion offered by Dr. Afar, visit http://www.bestnorthhollywooddentist.com, call (818) 824-8228 or go to NOHO Dental Group, located at 11126 Chandler Blvd in North Hollywood, CA 91601.

PR by http://www.seocompanyca.com/

SOURCE NOHO Dental Group

Watch an Average Smile Transform Into a Radiant Smile With SmileSimplicity®

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:05:00 +0000

Watch an Average Smile Transform Into a Radiant Smile With SmileSimplicity®

ZERO-PAIN™ veneer procedure creates a gorgeous smile with no shots or removal of sensitive tooth structure

PR Newswire

SANTA MARIA, Calif., Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sometimes a subtle change can make a big difference, especially when it comes to your smile. Perfectly healthy teeth may not be attractive because they appear dull and/or out of proportion. Now with SmileSimplicity, the noninvasive and painless veneer procedure, a more beautiful and radiant smile can be achieved without painful shots or drilling of sensitive tooth structure.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120206/LA47055)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101116/LA02911LOGO)

One patient, who believed her natural teeth were perfect, changed her mind after a SmileSimplicity consultation. She was amazed by the before and after images, which convinced her that there was room for improvement in terms of the size and color of her teeth. After careful evaluation and planning, with just two short visits and no downtime, shots or pain, SmileSimplicity dramatically enhanced her smile by correcting the proportion and brightening the shade of her teeth.

Dental professionals and patients can see the SmileSimplicity technique performed by registering for a free February 15, 2012 webinar. Participants will see how Dr. Robert Ibsen, noninvasive dentistry authority and creator of SmileSimplicity, uses the principles of adhesion to place veneers and improve esthetically neglected dentition. This procedure is performed without anesthetic shots or drilling of sensitive tooth structure. If desired, it can be reversed as original tooth structure is preserved.

To register, please visit smilesimplicity .com /dental -ce .html. For more information about SmileSimplicity, visit www .SmileSimplicity .com, email info @smilesimplicity .com, or call (805) 346-8100.

About the Presenter Robert L. Ibsen, DDS

Dr. Ibsen's mission is to practice and teach while beautifying and strengthening smiles through conservative treatments. He is a graduate of the USC School of Dentistry and Southern California College of Optometry. He is a Fellow of the International Academy for Dental Facial Esthetics, American and International College of Dentists, American Academy of General Practice, Academy of Dentistry International, Academy of International Dental Studies, American Academy of Dental Materials, and Academy of General Dentistry.

For over four decades, Dr. Ibsen has been an internationally respected authority on dental adhesion and preserving tooth structure. Originally the founder of Den-Mat® Corporation, developer of Rembrandt® Oral Care Products, and inventor of LUMINEERS® porcelain veneers, Dr. Ibsen is now the developer of SmileSimplicity® procedures designed to protect the pulp and nerve of the tooth.

SOURCE SmileSimplicity

Spine Injury Information Many Doctors Don't Explain

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:13:44 +0000

Many doctors still don't adequately explain the anatomy of the spine, the reasons for a patient's pain and the anticipated treatment plan. Here we will discuss the intricacies of spinal injuries and how a skilled personal injury attorney can help.

FISHKILL, NY, February 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- How is a spine injury patient supposed to make an informed decision about his/her medical care if they don't understand the basics about the spine? The problem isn't as bad as it was a few decades ago, but many doctors still don't adequately explain the anatomy of the spine, the reasons for a patient's pain and the anticipated treatment plan when a patient goes to an orthopedist or neurosurgeon. All too frequently, I find myself performing the treating doctor's job by having to explain information to new clients that should have come from the doctor.

Spine Anatomy:

The spine is principally made up of vertebrae (bones), discs (cartilage between the vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and space maintainers), ligaments (that connect bone to bone and hold the discs in place between the bones), nerves (that convey directions to muscles to act and relay sensation to the brain) and muscles (that run up and down the spine like a pulley system).

There are eight Cervical vertebrae at the top of the spine, twelve Thoracic vertebrae in the middle of the spine, five Lumbar vertebrae in the lower spine and the Sacrum located at the bottom of the spine. The spinal cord travels down the spine and stops in the vicinity of the first Lumbar vertebra (Conus Medullaris). From that point, nerves continue down the spinal column. Nerve roots exit from the spine through openings called Foramina located at each level and on both sides of the spine.

Typical patient complaints include: localized spine pain; pain, numbness and tingling radiating (radiculopathy) from the neck down one or both arms or radiating from the lower back down one or both legs. Most spinal complaints result from an injury or from arthritic degenerative changes that take place over time in all human beings. Trauma can cause damage to the discs. A "slipped" or herniated disc occurs when the trauma causes disc material to rupture through the annulus fibrosus which normally holds the disc material in place. If the herniated disc puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots that exit the cord, it can cause severe pain, numbness and tingling with radiation of the symptoms down the path of the nerve root that is being pressed upon or impinged by the herniated disc.

The role of the intervertebral discs is mechanical. They are the joints of the spine, enabling the spine to bend and twist in all directions. Discs support compressive loads arising from body weight and muscle tension and anchor one vertebral body to the next. The discs in the human body have no blood supply and lose water content over time. If a disc thins out or bony growths (osteophytes) develop on the vertebrae, nerve roots can also be pinched as is the case with a herniated disc.

A tear in the outside of the disc (annulus fibrosus) can cause leakage of irritating fluid that results in localized disabling pain, even if the disc doesn't herniate out of its space. The torn disc will lose its normal shape and its ability to work as a shock absorber and space maintainer can be compromised.

Diagnostic Methods and Tools:

A trained orthopedist (bone surgeon) and neurosurgeon (nerve surgeon) will be able to isolate the source of a patient's spinal complaints through a combination of physical examination, diagnostics tests and by obtaining an accurate medical history from the patient. While a physical exam will yield helpful basic information, the use of modern diagnostic studies is frequently necessary if the patient's complaints appear to be the result of more than a mild sprain or strain of soft tissue.

A CT scan (computerized axial tomogram) is an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. A CT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments. CT scans are generally more useful in looking at bone as opposed to soft tissue.

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI provides different information and may show problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods such as an x-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan. Pictures from an MRI scan are digital images that can be saved and stored on a computer for more study. The images also can be reviewed remotely, such as in a clinic or an operating room. In some cases, contrast dye may be used during the MRI scan to show certain structures more clearly.

MRI testing will show most, but not all, herniated discs. However, sometimes the tearing of the annulus fibrosus is subtle, permitting irritating, caustic fluid to leak out of the disc and cause significant pain. An MRI may not reveal this kind of damage. Over the last 32 years, I've represented many spine injury victims with "negative" MRI's who have suffered for years with pain and restricted range of motion. In recent years, some of these victims have found help in the form of a fairly new form of testing called a provocative discogram.

When the provocative discogram is performed, a surgeon injects dye directly into several discs and a CT scan is obtained that reveals the damaged disc is leaking the injected dye (in film (a) above, you see the dye has spread out between the L4 and L5 vertebrae). The test, performed with the patient awake, also "provokes" pain where the disc is damaged. This testing is generally performed on the lower back but not on the neck because of the risk of spinal injury from the test which could cause quadriplegia.

Treatment Options:

Once the orthopedist or neurosurgeon has isolated the cause of the spine symptoms, they have a number of treatment paths that can be pursued. Except in the case where trauma requires immediate spine surgery, all surgeons tend to follow the same conservative approach to treatment of spine pain and other related symptoms. After trauma to the body, there is usually swelling or inflammation of soft tissue that can compress large or small nerves and cause pain, numbness and/or tingling. Initially, application of a cold compress or ice to the injured area helps to reducing the swelling. This can be complemented by the use of an anti-inflammatory medication.

Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), are medications used primarily to treat inflammation, mild to moderate pain, and fever. Non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often an effective back pain treatment option. There are many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are common ones. Acetaminophen can bring down your fever, but may not work as well for conditions caused by inflammation.

Steroid anti-inflammatories are powerful medications, which are based on hormonal substances, like cortisone. These medications have a stronger anti-inflammatory response than non-steroidal medicines. They can be taken as pills, given through your vein, or injected directly into a joint space. Injections of epidural steroid directly into the affected joint is usually performed as a series of three separate injections. If pain is being caused by swollen soft tissue that is compressing a nerve, these kind of injections can be helpful. Steroid anti-inflammatory drugs can have powerful side affects and must therefore be limited in their use.

Surgeons usually will employ a course of physical therapy when treating a spine injury. The physical therapy may include: hot and cold therapies; transcutaneous (electrical) nerve stimulation; Ultrasound; exercise; massage; and, aquatic therapy in a pool.

If less invasive treatments don't yield significant improvement in the patient's symptoms, there are other treatments that can be undertaken short of full-blown surgery. One approach used to treat severe chronic pain in the lower back is Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA), where radio frequency waves are used to produce heat on specifically identified nerves surrounding the facet joints on either side of the lumbar spine. By generating heat around the nerve, its ability to transmit pain signals to the brain is destroyed. The target nerves are identified through injections of local anesthesia prior to the RFA procedure. If the local anesthesia injections provide temporary pain relief, then RFA is performed on the nerve(s) that responded well to the injections. RFA is a minimally invasive procedure which can usually be done in day-surgery clinics, where the patient is sent home shortly after completion of the procedure. The patient is awake during the procedure, so risks associated with general anesthesia are avoided. The major drawback for this procedure is that nerves (other than the spinal cord) regenerate over time, so that pain relief lasts for only a short duration (6-24 months) in most patients.

When conservative care fails and the patient is unable to live with his/her symptoms or is at risk of permanent nerve damage if untreated, surgeons will consider performing spine surgery. In microdiscectomy or microdecompression spine surgery, a small portion of the bone over the nerve root and/or disc material from under the nerve root is removed to relieve nerve impingement and provide more room for the nerve to heal. A microdiscectomy is typically performed for a herniated lumbar disc and is actually more effective for treating leg pain (radiculopathy) than lower back pain.

A microdiscectomy is performed through a small (1 inch to 1 1/2 inch) incision in the middle of the lower back. First, the back muscles are lifted off the bony arch (lamina) of the spine. Since these back muscles run vertically, they can be moved out of the way rather than cut. The surgeon is then able to enter the spine by removing a membrane over the nerve roots (ligamentum flavum), and uses either operating glasses or an operating microscope to visualize the nerve root. Often, a small portion of the inside facet joint is removed both to facilitate access to the nerve root and to relieve pressure over the nerve. The nerve root is then gently moved to the side and the disc material is removed from under the nerve root.

Since almost all of the joints, ligaments and muscles are left intact, a microdiscectomy does not change the mechanical structure of the patient's lower spine (lumbar spine) and the recovery period is shorter than more invasive procedures. Microdiscectomy is generally performed in an otherwise healthy spine where removal of the herniated disc material is all that is required. When the spine condition is more complex and/or involves multiple levels of the spine, it is necessary for the surgeon to perform a more invasive procedure called a laminectomy.

A lumbar laminectomy is also known as an open decompression and is typically performed to alleviate pain caused by neural impingement that can result from lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine). Spinal stenosis is a condition that primarily afflicts elderly patients and is caused by degenerative changes that result in enlargement of the facet joints. The enlarged joints then place pressure on the nerves, and this pressure may be effectively relieved with the laminectomy. The lumbar laminectomy is designed to remove a small portion of the bone over the nerve root and/or disc material from under the nerve root to give the nerve root more space and a better healing environment. Stenosis can exist from birth (congenital stenosis) in some patients.

The lumbar laminectomy (open decompression) differs from a microdiscectomy in that the incision is longer and there is more muscle stripping. First, the back is approached through a two-inch to five-inch long incision in the middle of the back, and the left and right back muscles are dissected off the lamina bone on both sides and at multiple levels. After the spine is approached, the lamina is removed (laminectomy), allowing visualization of the nerve roots. The facet joints, which are directly over the nerve roots, may then be undercut (trimmed) to give the nerve roots more room.

Post laminectomy, patients are in the hospital, on average, for one to three days and the individual patient's return to normal activity is largely dependent on his/her pre-operative physical condition and age.

The most invasive spine surgery procedure is the spinal fusion. Spinal fusion surgery is designed to stop the motion at a painful vertebral segment, which in turn should decrease pain generated from the joint. There are many approaches to lumbar spinal fusion surgery, and all involve adding bone graft to an area of the spine to create a fusion, thereby stopping the motion at that segment.

Two vertebral segments need to be fused together to stop the motion at one segment, so that an L4-L5 (lumbar vertebra # 4 and lumbar vertebra # 5) spinal fusion is actually a one-level spinal fusion. A spine fusion surgery involves using bone graft to cause two vertebral bodies to grow together into one long bone. Bone graft can be taken from the patient's hip (autograft bone) during the spine fusion surgery, harvested from cadaver bone (allograft bone) or manufactured (synthetic bone graft substitute).

In general, lumbar spinal fusion surgery is most effective for those conditions involving only one vertebral segment. Most of my clients don't report a significant limitation in motion after a one-level spine fusion. When necessary, fusing two segments of the spine may be a reasonable option for treatment of pain. However, spinal fusion of more than two segments is not considered likely to provide pain relief because it removes too much of the normal motion in the lower back and places too much stress across the remaining joints. Complete fusion of the spine takes up to one year following surgery. As is the case with laminectomy, patients are admitted to the hospital but, on average, stay for five to seven days. The patient's return to activity after spinal fusion takes much more time than after laminectomy.

The best fusion results in my clients appear to be present in patients who are not overweight and who are motivated to regain as much function as possible. However, clients who reportedly engage in excessive physical activity post-fusion such as manual labor, in my experience, tend to develop additional problems at adjacent levels of the spine that are not designed to shoulder additional stress loads.

For more information about how to receive compensation for injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents, railroad accidents or other types of negligent circumstances, visit www.maurerlaw.net. Ira Maurer has been representing the legal rights of those suffering a catastrophic personal injury for more than 30 years in New York and throughout New England.

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Clue Dental Marketing Announces Dental Press Release Giveaway for February

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:11:24 +0000

Clue Dental Marketing is pleased to announce their free dental article giveaway, valued at $199.

WOOD DALE, IL, February 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Clue Dental Marketing, a Chicagoland-based dental marketing firm, will give away a free dental press release, valued at $199, in their February drawing. Participants can simply fill out a short entry form during the month of February, and they will be entered to win. One dental practice will be chosen as the winner of a free dental press release on March 1st, 2012 at noon CST.

Clue states that they are holding this giveaway to show dentists how important dental press releases are for online publicity. A press release is a valuable part of any online dental marketing program. Clue Dental Marketing copywriters have already driven a great amount of traffic to dentists' websites with their SEO strategized online dental press releases.

Growing and established dental practices alike benefit from press releases as part of their dental marketing program. Besides informing potential patients of new equipment, staff members and procedures, a strategically written dental press release can show up on the first page of search engine results. While over 50% of press releases are rejected by distributors every day, good dental copywriters are familiar with the guidelines and know how to write press releases for optimal visibility.

With the press release writing service ($199 per press release), Clue Dental Marketing delivers a well-written article with dental SEO keywords blended in and distributes the press release to a variety of online media outlets. Clue Dental Marketing is dedicated to achieving 100% client satisfaction with their services.

To enter the contest, please fill out a dental press release giveaway form. A winner will be chosen through a random drawing.

About Clue Dental Marketing:

Clue Dental Marketing is a Chicagoland-based dental marketing firm. Along with a comprehensive online dental marketing program, Clue offers various website packages, brochures, print advertising, educational practice materials and other marketing programs both online and offline. Clue works with both general dentists and specialists to create optimal marketing solutions. To learn more about the services Clue offers, visit the Clue Dental Marketing website. You can also like Clue on Facebook and follow Clue on Twitter.

Website: http://www.cluedentalmarketing.com

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Oratio Provides Dentists with Advanced Implantology Solutions Using Objet 3D Printing

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Oratio Provides Dentists with Advanced Implantology Solutions Using Objet 3D Printing

PR Newswire

REHOVOT, Israel, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Objet Ltd., the innovation leader in 3D printing for rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing today announced that Oratio B.V., a leading dental industry company in the Netherlands, has developed a complete in-house digital workflow for fabrication of models for dental implants with the help of an Objet 3D Printer. The addition of 3D printing into Oratio's workflow has turned Oratio into a fully digital dental provider, allowing it to significantly expand its implantology practice while offering higher accuracy and faster turnaround times.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120206/CL47779 )

Oratio identified the use of digital solutions for implantology as a potential growth opportunity. However, the company did not want to increase staff or costs, nor compromise its high standards. According to Siebe van der Zel, Chief Operating Officer of Oratio: "Digital dentistry could enable a new level of implant models and allow us full control of the complete process – from the dentist's initial order, to designing the restoration, through final manufacturing."

Leveraging its strong experience in producing dental parts from CAD design imagery, Oratio chose to integrate the Objet Eden260V 3D Printer into its workflow. Since Installing the Objet 3D Printer Oratio has digitized the entire design and manufacturing process for dental implants. This has significantly improved the productivity of dental technicians by allowing them to focus on higher-level tasks. Implant models printed by the Objet 3D Printer are delivered with exceptionally fine details and an outstanding surface finish – to the full satisfaction of Oratio's dentist customers. Dentist clients are also benefitting from improved turnaround times, enabled by the in-house rapid manufacturing process.

Avi Cohen, Head of Medical Solutions at Objet, commented: "Practices that specialize in dental implantology inherently require support systems that are flexible and versatile. For this reason Objet's 3D printing systems represent the perfect fit. They enable labs such as Oratio to continue delivering specialist products to market while, at the same time, even broadening their range of services with new, value-added offerings."

Summing up the benefits, van der Zel said: "Business growth followed immediately after we installed the Objet 3D Printer. We increased our productivity and as a result we can provide new and better solutions for implantology."

Read the Case study to learn how Oratio expanded its dental implantology service while cutting operational costs.

The Objet Eden260V 3D Printer was recently recognized as a 2011 "Readers' Choice" by subscribers to Dental Lab Products magazine. It was the only Rapid Prototyping platform honored in the magazine's annual "Best of the Best Products" list.

To find out more about Objet's digital dentistry solutions please visit www.ObjetDental.com.

About Oratio B.V.
Oratio B.V. is one of the leading companies in the development and production of affordable custom dental devices by collaborative computerized dentistry in the Netherlands. A unique dental technology service and knowledge powerhouse, it provides a wide range of services covering all areas of restorative dentistry. Oratio B.V. is dedicated to excellence in dentistry, constantly applying cutting edge CAD/CAM technologies wherever it helps the company provide better services. The company's goal is to offer the latest methods and best systems to continue elevating the level of care patients can expect when they seek cosmetic or reconstructive treatment. For more information, see http://www.oratio.nl.

About Objet
Objet Ltd. is a leading provider of high quality, cost effective inkjet-based 3D printing systems and materials. A global company, Objet has offices in North America, Europe, Japan, China, Hong Kong, and India.

Objet's 3D printing systems and 3D printing materials are ideal for any company involved in the manufacture or design of physical products using 3D software or other 3D content. Companies using Objet's solutions can be typically found in sectors such as consumer goods & electronics, dental, medical and medical devices, architecture, industrial machinery, footwear, sporting goods, toys and service bureaus.

Founded in 1998, the company has thousands of customers worldwide including a substantial share of the relevant Fortune 100 and Fortune 500. Its award-winning technology (12 awards in 5 years) is based upon over 110 patents and patent pending inventions.

Objet's advanced 3D printing systems and range of over 60 materials enable professionals to build prototypes that accurately simulate the true look, feel and function of an end-product, even complex, assembled goods. The Objet Connex™ line of multi-material 3D printers features the world's only technology to simultaneously jet 2 materials. With this, users can print many different materials into a single part and print various mixed parts on the same build tray. Users can also create advanced composite materials, or Digital Materials™ featuring unique mechanical and thermal properties. Objet's range of over 60 3D printing materials simulate properties ranging from rigid to rubber-like, transparent to opaque and standard to ABS-grade engineering plastics, with a large number of in-between shore grades and shades.

Objet's 3D printers are available in a range of form-factors, from cost-effective desktop 3D printers ideal for entry-level professionals all the way to industrial-scale multi-material machines for front-line designers and top manufacturers. Objet's 3D printers feature the industry's highest-resolution 3D printing quality, based on 16-micron (0.0006 in.) super-thin layering, wide material versatility, office friendliness and ease of operation.

For more information, visit us at www.objet.com, and for more about 3D printing industry-related news, business issues and trends, read the Objet blog.

© 2012 Objet, Objet24, Objet30, Objet Studio, Quadra, QuadraTempo, FullCure, SHR, Eden, Eden250, Eden260, Eden260V, Eden330, Eden350, Eden350V, Eden500V, Job Manager, CADMatrix, Connex, Connex260, Connex350, Connex500, Alaris, Alaris30, PolyLog, TangoBlack, TangoGray, TangoPlus, TangoBlackPlus, VeroBlue, VeroBlack, VeroClear, VeroDent, VeroGray, VeroWhite, VeroWhitePlus, Durus, Digital Materials, PolyJet, PolyJet Matrix, ABS-like and ObjetGreen are trademarks or registered trademarks of Objet Geometries Ltd. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. All other trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Objet Media Contacts

USA

Todd Graff
Conover Tuttle Pace
Tel. +1-617-412-4000
Email. tgraff@ctpboston.com

Europe

Claire Russell-Jones

UK Bespoke

Tel: +44 1737 215200

E-mail. claire@bespoke.co.uk

Objet

Arita Mattsoff

Objet

Tel. +972 8 931 4314