CBCT vendors react to NYT article; Kan. groups split on DHATs

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

Dental cone-beam CT made the front page of the New York Times last week, with an investigative report that painted a less-than-flattering picture of the technology's proponents. But imaging experts and those who design and sell the equipment say the Times missed some key facts, and that when it comes to reducing radiation exposure, users bear some responsibility as well. Read more.

In other Imaging & CAD/CAM Community news, an interactive software program that automates the reading of dental CT scans by recognizing and labeling key anatomical features could speed up the training required to interpret these complex 3D images, according to a presentation at the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology conference.

Meanwhile, the W.R. Kellogg Foundation's recent $16 million pledge to fund dental health aide therapist (DHAT) projects in five states has stirred up the midlevel provider debate at the state level. One of the Kellogg recipients -- Kansas -- is already seeing a split between dental groups and public health advocates on the best approach to dealing with the state's oral care crisis. Read more.

Finally, over on the Second Opinion page, two new contributions: Jimmy Earll references the wisdom of a popular '80s rock band in his latest Laughing Gas column, while Dr. Helaine Smith emphasizes the special needs of pediatric patients.