Blog

Gendex celebrates the Dentaltown “Best Panoramic X-ray” GXDP-300 and GXDP-700 at Chicago MidWinter meeting, and introduces the new Invivo 5.3 to its 3D product line. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hatfield, PA (February 19, 2014) - Gendex, a leader in dental imaging, will showcase its full line of digital imaging solutions at the Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting from February 20 to February 22, 2014.

At the show, Gendex will celebrate the recent Dentaltown “Best Panoramic X-ray” Townie Choice Award received for its GXDP-300 digital panoramic and GXDP-700 panoramic, cephalometric, and Cone Beam 3D systems. The positive response from dental practitioners and industry experts confirms Gendex’s place as a leader in extraoral imaging innovation.

Gendex will also introduce Invivo 5.3, a new edition of the award-winning 3D imaging software. Current Gendex 3D owners and visitors wanting to learn more about 3D will be able to demo Invivo 5.3. With the integration of new clinical tools to enhance the implant treatment planning process, this latest version elevates the potential of Gendex Cone Beam imaging solutions and ultimately increases the predictability of clinical outcomes.

Invivo 5.3 new restoration design module

Furthermore, the new software allows users to combine Cone Beam 3D data with digital impressions taken with an intraoral camera or CAD/CAM system. The pairing of patient anatomy datasets allows practitioners to identify a treatment plan that meets both functional and aesthetic requirements. 

The GXDP-300, GXDP-700, Invivo 5.3 along with the entire family of Gendex products including digital intraoral sensors and x-ray solutions, will be showcased at the Chicago Midwinter show in Booth #1000.

About Gendex

Gendex, known for its innovative and dependable products, offers a wide variety of comprehensive digital imaging solutions for both general dentists and specialists. The company’s strong history in continuing innovation, along with a deep dedication to deliver products that exceed the needs of dental professionals, have earned Gendex recognition as a global leader. Learn more about the full line of Gendex products at www.gendex.com.

By Rachel Mahoney, DMD

In April 2013, all of my dreams came true — I opened Mahoney Family Dentistry and gave birth to my son, Keegan, just weeks apart. Caring for a newborn baby and nurturing a new practice both take patience, attention to detail, and a great support group. The caring and knowledgeable representatives from Gendex and Burkhart offered their expertise on every aspect of the practice, especially on my imaging needs. As a result, the GXDP-700™ series digital pan and 3D combination unit and GXS-700 digital sensors have become two of the most important assets for my new practice.

During my career, I have worked in many aspects of dentistry — starting as a dental assistant in my father’s pediatric practice in 1990, then studying to become a hygienist, continuing on to dental school at Boston University School of Dental Medicine, and finally completing a GPR residency at the University of Nevada School Of Medicine in Las Vegas. In 2008, I moved to Edmonds, Washington and worked in different dental practices with various levels of technology.

By the time I started my own practice, I had worked in the dental field for 20 years and had experience with a variety of software and x-ray equipment. So, I was very selective and knew exactly what I did and did not want. Burkhart representatives Jim Connor and Tami Lennox accompanied me at the Pacific Northwest Dental Convention to see my options. For imaging products, we visited multiple companies’ booths and kept returning to Gendex. For implant procedures, I wanted a user-friendly in-office CBCT that produced great images. After stopping by the Gendex booth, and seeing the excellent image quality and price of the GXDP-700, the decision was simple. As part of my imaging package, I also got both sizes of GXS-700 digital sensors.

From the time of the training, I knew that I had made the right choice. I am so pleased with the clarity of the images, and how simply I can move between 2D and 3D modes. During training, I had a cone beam and bitewings done on me because I was due for a checkup. The bitewing was so crystal clear that I found a cavity that I had suspected but that was missed with a different brand of digital imaging a year before.

3D imaging is important to different procedures in my practice. When planning implant cases, I need the most accurate and detailed information available. And 3D can help me to pinpoint precise nerve location for third molar wisdom tooth extraction cases. I can control the resolution for lower radiation exposure and still get very fine detail even at the low resolution setting. My goal is to start using guides on every case, and CBCT is an important part of that process. This will remove even more guesswork and allow me to keep more advanced cases in-house.

Another interesting feature helped out with a patient who had an extremely bad gag reflex. With the extraoral bitewing feature, we were able to get great quality images. The patient was so impressed and said that he didn’t even know a dentist could cater to his special needs.

The GXS-700 sensors have also proven to be very valuable. Almost all of our new patients get a full mouth series. During our training, my team quickly learned how to properly position the sensor to get the appropriate views. The sensors are comfortable, and we use the smaller size for children, or adults with a bad gag reflex. Patients appreciate that they get less radiation exposure with digital x-rays, and since I was an assistant cleaning the processor at the beginning of my career, I appreciate not having to waste space with a darkroom or use harsh developing chemicals.

The Gendex trainer Mary Johnson came from Portland, Oregon to get us up to speed with the VixWin Platinum and Anatomage software. I was relieved that both are easy to navigate. I love and want technology, but am not super tech savvy, so the fact that it is so user-friendly is very important. The touchscreen on the GXDP-700 makes it so simple, my assistants caught on very quickly. Also, if we need to share information, scans can easily and securely be sent electronically to referring dentists.

Setting up this office has been an interesting, and often hectic experience. In the span of a few weeks, my husband, Glenn (who is in emergency medicine and helps monitor my in-office IV sedation), and I got a loan, designed our space, signed a 10-year lease, and discovered that we were going to have a baby. Troy Schmidt from Gendex, Jim Connor and Tami Lennox from Burkhart helped to reduce this potentially stressful situation. Jim and Tami went above and beyond to help me set up my practice with the hallmark integrity that Burkhart has always shown. Troy kept in touch and answered all of my questions, ensuring that I was happy with my decisions. Mary, the Gendex trainer, was patient and kind. They became my support group and gave me tips on everything from equipment to parenting. I returned to my new practice after three weeks of maternity leave, and my dreams continue to come true as I watch my baby and my practice grow.

Dr. Mahoney began her dental career in Arizona in 1990 as a pediatric dental assistant, working for her father. After 8 years of general and pediatric dental assisting, she went to college to become a dental hygienist and graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas, in 1998. After graduation, a job opportunity took her to Luzern, Switzerland, where she practiced dental hygiene for 3 years.

After moving back to the states for dental school, she graduated, with honors, from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. She went on to complete a competitive residency at The University of Nevada School of Medicine. During her residency, she received intensive training in general dentistry, hospital dentistry, implant dentistry and sedation. Upon completion of residency, she and her husband, who works in emergency medicine, moved to Washington to be close to family. 

Washington is her final home, but through her many moves and travels she has gained life experiences. She feels that these experiences make her able to communicate and work with patients of all ages and backgrounds. Besides her work in private practice, Dr. Mahoney is also affiliate faculty at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. She says that she loves being a dentist because it allows her to help improve a person’s health and smile. She finds it rewarding to get to know her patients and really understand their individual expectations and desires in regards to their oral health. 

More info at Mahoney Family Dentistry

GX00780813 Rev. A

SRT Scatter Reduction Technology Wins Pride Institute’s Best of Class Technology Award

Hatfield, PA (August 29, 2013) Gendex, developers of the GXDP-700™ cone beam 3D system, has been honored to receive the Pride Institute’s Best of Class Technology Award for 2013 for its SRT™ Scatter Reduction Technology. Unique in its approach and scope, the Pride Institute’s “Best of Class” Technology Award — now in its fifth year — recognizes products that demonstrate excellence in their category.

SRT image optimization technology delivers 3D scans with higher clarity and detail around scatter-generating material. By using SRT Technology, clinicians are able to reduce artifacts caused by metal or radio-opaque objects such as restorations, endodontic filling materials, and implant posts. When a scan is prescribed near a known area of scatter generating material, the user only needs to select the SRT button from the GXDP-700 touchscreen interface to utilize this new optimization technology. From endodontic to restorative and the post-surgical assessment of implant sites, SRT offers a significant improvement to image quality. 

“We are very proud of this distinction from Pride Institute,” says Filippo Impieri, Director of Marketing, “And we are thrilled that the result of our dedication to research and development has been recognized by this distinguished panel.” He adds, “Our proprietary SRT technology further enhances the diagnostic capabilities of the modular GXDP-700 Series.”

Dr. Lou Shuman, DMD, CAGS, President of Pride Institute and founder of the “Best of Class” Technology Award noted, “Over the past two years, the panel has been particularly interested to see what companies would take the initiative in responding to the need to reduce radiation in their next generation products. The SRT Technology by Gendex, allows clinicians to reduce scatter radiation and artifacts, thereby providing an impactful solution to a longstanding issue. Even more critical, the system’s focused field of view gives the practitioner the control to expose a smaller area to radiation dose, therefore reducing radiation exposure. Gendex is commended for committing the time and dollars to researching and developing this new technology. They received high praise from the panel for taking a leadership role
in responding to the needs of the dental community and most importantly the patients they treat.”

The panel is committed to an unbiased and rigorous selection method. Throughout the course of the year, members of the panel review new and existing technologies in preparation for the vote. Panelists who receive compensation from dental companies are prevented from voting in that company’s category. This provides the dental professional with a product perspective untainted by manufacturer intervention.

Gendex’s design philosophy focuses on delivering award-winning innovations with clinicians and patients in mind, and the addition of the SRT to the GXDP-700 platform aligns with that goal. The company’s strong history in continuing innovation, along with a deep dedication to deliver products that exceed the needs of dental professionals, have earned Gendex recognition as a global leader. 

Learn more about the full line of Gendex products at www.gendex.com.

With the advent of any new technology, it’s important for dental professionals to consider not only cost and risks, but also the benefits of switching. In the case of 3D dental imaging, the advantages are clear, granting practitioners and patients alike a better clinical experience.

A dental 3D scan allows clinicians to view dental anatomy from different angles. A 3D scan can help gain a better view of bone structures, such as adjacent root positions, in order to locate canals and root fractures, as well as provide the ability to more accurately measure anatomical structures. These scans also support a wide range of diagnosis and treatment planning, making them extremely flexible. Further, they increase the possibility of treatment success, granting practitioners greater predictability and confidence in preparing for extractions, performing root evaluations, and placing implants.

3D dental imaging also delivers the power of repeatability, providing fast and accurate imaging that’s consistent—and thus, reliable. Using a 3D dental scanner equips dental professionals with a comprehensive view, letting them see specific conditions in the region of interest to determine whether a treatment is necessary. Because details show up so clearly, patients can be more confident in a dentist’s decision. In addition, the use of dental imaging technology often creates a more comfortable and engaging dental visit for the patient.

The Gendex GXDP-700 Series features the pinnacle of 3D dental imaging technology, allowing dentists to plan for more predictable treatment outcomes by taking advantage of powerful 3D software analysis and simulation tools. Plus, dental practitioners can control the exposure and the size of scanned areas using the system’s flexible field-of-view (FOV) to meet individual patient and clinical needs. As a practice grows to offer additional imaging capabilities, the GXDP-700 imaging solution can be upgraded within your own timeline and budget. 

X-ray imaging, including dental 3D (CBCT), provides a fast, non-invasive way of answering a number of clinical questions. Dental CBCT images provide three-dimensional (3D) information, rather than the two-dimensional (2D) information provided by a conventional X-ray image. This may help with the diagnosis, treatment planning and evaluation of certain conditions. Dental CBCT should be performed only when necessary to provide clinical information that cannot be provided using other imaging modalities. Concerns about radiation exposure are greater for younger patients because they are more sensitive to radiation. For more information about the use, benefits, and risks of CBCT, visit blog.gendex.com/risk-and-benefits-of-CBCT

A new, powerful version of 3D imaging software is shipping with our award-winning Cone Beam 3D systems: Anatomage Invivo 5.2.

This software seamlessly integrates with the Gendex VixWin Platinum 3.x imaging application, bringing 3D imaging just a single click away and making all 2D images from digital sensors, panoramic, digital cameras and 3D scans conveniently available in one single patient imaging management system. 

Here is a list of new key features and improvements available with the all-new version of the Invivo software.

1. Sharper Image Quality

• Significantly sharper and clearer images for better diagnosis.
• Better bone boundary for improved implant planning.

 2. Improved Implant Planning Features

• Ability to check for surgical interference before sending the case reduces treatment time.
• Real-time implant angle control.
• Flexible restoration positioning.

Figure 1. The enhanced implant planning simulation tool of Invivo 5.2

3. Sharing Made Easy

• Wrap image data with the Invivo Viewer and burn to a CD to easily share scans.
• Export 3D/2D images with a work-up as a single-file in DICOM format.

4. New Radiology Tools

• Quick slice review. 
• New flexible custom section tools.
• New lightbox layouts.

Figure 2. Invivo 5.2 offers the ability to quickly review x-ray slices

 

For more information about Anatomage software, please visit anatomage.com.

 

Over the last few years, Cone Beam 3D imaging has become more widely adopted in dental offices. The information delivered by this technology creates invaluable data for the treatment and implant planning process.

3D scans used in conjunction with 3D implant planning software represent an optimal method for presurgical assessment of dental implant sites. Specifically the use of 3D technology during any augmentation or implant procedure allows clinicians to examine cross-sectional views of the site of interest. 3D imaging provides an extensive amount of information for the clinician, such as bone structure, bone density, root positioning, fractures, and clear measurements of the anatomical structure. Both doctors and patients alike can visibly understand the precise diagnosis, method of entry, treatment and recovery.

Dr. Norberto Velázquez in Greenville, NC shares his experience with the Gendex GXDP-700 Pan/3D imaging system and talks about why 3D Imaging makes implant planning more predictable.

Implant Planning with 3D/CBCT

The case presented represents a typical instance where an implant is required in the area of the first or second premolar. A three-dimensional scan is used to accurately locate the exact position of important anatomic structures or landmarks. The 3D scan and software allow moving, slicing, and viewing the anatomy from any direction.

Dr. Velázquez’s Conclusion

The GXDP-700 system offers several functionalities that benefit my patients. The advantage of the extra dimension to both implant patients for me, and orthodontic patients for my wife, is incalculable. This machine has become a basic part of the diagnostic process for implants — like my explorer and mirror. It allows me to see the location of important anatomical structures and landmarks so I can avoid additional or unnecessary invasive procedures.

With the scan, I can inform patients of my implant treatment plan, and show them how the surgery will proceed. They gain confidence in my knowledge of their dental anatomy even before surgery begins. Before 3D, a surprise could pop up during surgery. Then, the patient would be disappointed that he or she was not going to get an implant immediately, but needed an additional procedure first, such as grafting. My patients understand that I have implemented this technology for the sake of their dental health.

For a dentist, the opportunity for improved diagnostic capabilities is always a benefit to the patient. While they are not always directly aware of all the advantages, the information that I obtain from these pans and scans is beneficial for their care. I witness these benefits every day, in increased patient communication and more successful treatment outcomes.  

Your clear path for growth begins with the GXDP-700™ Series. This dynamic system starts with a digital panoramic with sophisticated styling and an ergonomic design including an advanced touchscreen interface. The GXDP-700 is a modular system, upgradeable from 2D panoramic to Cephalometrics or 3D Cone Beam with flexible field-of-view, or both. 

Gendex was a must-visit booth this year at the 2013 Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting for doctors and staff eager to incorporate the digital imaging technology into their practices.

“It’s been fantastic!” said Peter Thomson, Gendex Territory Sales Manager, about the Midwinter Meeting. “It’s been a great turnout. We’ve had a lot of great questions from doctors; they’re so interested in imaging technology, coming by with their staff to see what’s new from Gendex.” The technology most doctors and staffs were particularly interested in exploring this year can be found in panoramic and cone beam 3D (CBCT) systems like the GXDP-700™ and digital intraoral sensors like the GXS-700™.

Dentists and staffs were particularly interested in digital panorex systems, says Erik Beard, Territory Sales Manager for Gendex. “They look at it as a new solution to expand the range of services and treatments provided to patients," Beard said. "They know it’s so much faster to take a panoramic than a full mouth series, so they are interest to see how digital panoramic images can complement intraoral x-rays.” Throughout the conference, Gendex representatives demonstrated the features of Gendex solutions and explained the ultimate benefits they bring to patients, doctors and staffs.

They’re also ready to answer attendee questions like, “How adding panoramic imaging increase productivity in my practice?” They can even explain how Gendex systems compare to the competition: “Very well,” answers Justin Dickinson, Gendex Territory Sales Manager. “We’ve got award-winning products that exemplify our commitment to continuing innovation and provide dependable performace” he says, explaining that patient comfort and workflow efficienciew are a major focus.

To learn more about the GXDP-700™ pan/ceph/3D and the GXS-700™ digital intraoral sensors, contact Gendex today.

Gendex new image optimization technology delivers a new level of clarity and details in 3D scans by reducing artifacts generated by metal or radio-opaque objects

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hatfield, PA (February 20, 2013) - Gendex introduces SRT™, Scatter Reduction Technology, to its award-winning GXDP-700™ Cone Beam 3D system. This new feature allows clinicians to reduce artifacts caused by metal or radio-opaque objects such as restorations, endodontic filling materials, and implant posts. 

The use of SRT image optimization technology delivers 3D scans with higher clarity and detail around scatter-generating material. SRT represents a significant aid when 3D scans are required for a variety of procedures from endodontic to restorative and the post-surgical assessment of implant sites. 

"We continue to make significant investments in research and development to bring new, meaningful innovations to the market," says Mike Bosha, Senior Product Manager for Gendex. He adds, "Our proprietary SRT technology further enhances the diagnostic capabilities of the modular GXDP-700 Series."

Comparison of a 3D scan without and with SRT™

The introduction of SRT to the GXDP-700 platform aligns with the Gendex design philosophy focused on delivering innovations with clinicians and patients in mind. The activation of SRT is a very simple and easy step. When a scan is prescribed near a known area of scatter generating material, the user only needs to select the SRT button from the GXDP-700 touchscreen interface to utilize this new optimization technology.

Gendex will unveil the new SRT technology at the Midwinter Dental Meeting in Chicago, IL held on February 21-23, 2013. In booth #4200, Gendex will showcase the GXDP-700 cone beam 3D system with the new SRT image optimization technology, along with its full line of comprehensive imaging solutions: from digital intraoral sensors and panoramics to intraoral cameras.  

About Gendex

Gendex, known for its innovative and dependable products, offers a wide variety of comprehensive digital imaging solutions for both general dentists and specialists. The company’s strong history in continuing innovation, along with a deep dedication to deliver products that exceed the needs of dental professionals, have earned Gendex recognition as a global leader. Learn more about the full line of Gendex products at www.gendex.com.

Several offices get stuck in the process of upgrading to digital radiography. Here are 3 initial steps you can take: 

1. Evaluate your practice's clinical needs
2. Learn about your options
3. Ask your peers or industry experts

1. Evaluate Your Practice's Clinical Needs

The first step in this process is to evaluate your practice imaging needs. Modern digital panorex are capable of offering not only a standard panoramic x-ray view, but also to acquire optimal pediatric panoramic x-rays, extraoral bitewing views, cephalometric projections, and even Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans, also known as dental 3D scans. How do you choose among all these options?

It is important to focus on your practice needs. Specifically, you want to identify the procedures you are performing today and anticipate the treatments your practice will likely offer in the near future. Do you see your practice on a path to growth? Are you offering more and more specialized treatments like implant placements, endodontic treatments, and orthodontics? The answers to these questions can help you make a more informed decision on the dental imaging capabilities that your next digital panorex should be able to provide. 

2. Learn About Your Options

There are several digital panoramic options in the market, but which one is right for you and your practice?

Once you have a clear understanding of your existing and future clinical needs, the next step is to explore available machines to meet those needs. One caveat is understanding your position with respect to 3D imaging, or the potential to upgrade to 3D in the future. In fact, while your office might not be in a position to benefit from 3D imaging today, you may want to choose a digital panorex that can be easily and effectively upgraded to Cone Beam 3D at a later date.

If you have relied on a Gendex GX-Pan for years, and would like to count on Gendex for your next digital panorex, you'll be comforted by the fact that Gendex is able to offer a comprehensive platform of digital panoramic solutions. Starting with the Gendex GXDP-300 digital panoramic system, to the Gendex GXDP-700 Series - a modular platform able to meet your Panoramic, Cephalometric and Cone Beam 3D imaging needs. Here is a comparative snapshot of the Gendex extraoral product line:

GXDP-700 Digital Pan, also upgradable w/ Ceph and 3D (left); GXDP-300 Digital Pan (right)

Trying to anticipate your practice's future needs is a smart thing to do, but when you add extra imaging capabilities to your panoramic system, your initial investment also goes up. However, going with the cheapest panorex for sale or the panoramic x-ray on promotion at the moment might not be the right choice for your practice if it is not upgradeable to meet your growing needs. Therefore it is critical to understand the real cost of a digital panorex, and the price you can afford. Here are Simple Return On Investment (ROI) Calcutators you can use to better understand the economics of your investment.

3. Ask Your Peers or Industry Experts

If you are trying to determine the best options to upgrade your GX-Pan panorex, you are not the only one. Several offices have already upgraded to digital technology or are in the process of doing so. Consulting with peers will allow you to gather helpful insights and learn how other professionals have succesfully gone digital.