The Practicon Insider

STOP WAITING FOR PERFECT CONDITIONS

2012-01-31T15:35:00.000-05:00

Are you waiting for everything to be perfect beforelaunching out toward a dream, a plan for your practice, a change in yourpriorities? STOP! Stop waiting for someone else to do it; forpermission; for different circumstances or people; for an absence of risk; formore self confidence; on and on. Insteadof saying, “We’ve never done that before.”; say, “We have the opportunity totry something new.” Instead of saying,“I’ll never get better.” or “She’ll never accept that.”; say, “I’ll try onemore time.” Or “Perhaps she’s ready to try something new.” Instead of saying, “It’s not my job.”; say,“I’ll be glad to take that responsibility.” or “I’ll try.”

Choose incremental improvements for yourself, your practice,your skills, your relationships over waiting for perfect. In so doing, you’llachieve sure and steady progress.

TIME TO INCREASE FEES

2012-01-02T08:57:00.002-05:00

You’ve no doubt long heard the recommendation to increaseyour fees at least annually. Wonderinghow to do so? Suggestion: Order Dr. Charles Blair’s Revenue Enhancement Program which analyzes procedures and fees for every ADA procedure code bypercentile according to zip codes. Forinformation or to place an order, call 1-866-858-7596 or visit www.practicebooster.com. Incidentally, for 2012, Dr. Blair isrecommending a 2.5% fee increase for general and specialty practices. However, before setting the 2.5% increase,doctors should make certain their current fees reflect the quality of care providedin their office and are commensurate with the fee profile in their particularzip code.

CAUTION CAN BE OVER-PLAYED

2011-12-13T14:47:00.001-05:00

An anonymous poet wrote:

“There wasa very cautious man who never laughed or played; he never risked, he

nevertried, he never sang or prayed. And whenone day he passed away, his

insurancewas denied; for since he never really lived, they claimed he never

died.”

Does this describe anyone you know??

DARE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW

2011-12-07T09:29:00.001-05:00

Fear of failure is one of the most significant stumblingblocks to growth and success---growth and success for individuals and fordental practices. It is simply easier todo what you have always done. It is safeand familiar.

The corporate world risks failure with every new venture,whether in manufacturing companies or inservice businesses. Do theseorganizations always succeed? No, butthese enterprises realize that without taking an occasional risk, there is nochance of succeeding.

Think about this the next time you, the dentist, or a staffmember suggests a positive change for your practice that may take some effortand seem a bit risky. Put in the extraeffort for the extra measure of success and pride of accomplishment. Dare to do it!

NEED NEW EQUIPMENT IN YOUR OFFICE?

2011-11-29T13:31:00.001-05:00

In yet another effort to stimulate the economy, Congress has added a new section to the tax law. Purchase of new business equipment formerly allowed 50% of the cost to be depreciated. Now 100% of the cost can be depreciated for equipment placed in service after September 8, 2010 and before January 1, 2012. Three caveats: the equipment must be new, must be used for business more than 50% of the time, and must have a recovery period of 20 years or less. Check with your accountant.

TAX STRATEGY HINT

2011-11-15T08:36:00.001-05:00

Fund private school costs or a college savings account with tax-deductible salary paid to your six year old or older child who performs some tasks in your office. In 2011 a child can earn up to $5,800; up to $5950 in 2012. Check with your accountant.

TAX STRATEGY HINT

2011-11-01T12:02:00.002-04:00

If you still employ a staff member hired during 2010 who was unemployed on February 3, 2010, your practice may qualify for the New Hire Retention Tax Credit of up to $1000 per employee. Check with your accountant.

2011-10-25T09:19:00.001-04:00

FEATURE FIND: The SmileAisle section of Practicon’s catalog has received rave reviews for its selection of outside-the-norm giveaways to delight all your young patients. We work diligently to find quality, affordable toys that mark your practice as one that truly appreciates young patients. Take a look. You’re sure to find some toys to please youngsters and their parents.

2011-10-11T08:12:00.000-04:00

FEATURE FIND: The Endomax Cordless Endodontic Handpiece. See this amazing Endo aide in the “Restorative and Specialties” section of Practicon’s print or on-line catalog. A 5.3 oz. handpiece that has Auto-Forward/Reverse; Reciprocating mode; Auto-Reverse/Stop; Five touch-selectable torque settings; Nine selectable rotation speeds, on and on with special features. Users are exclaiming over this innovative handpiece.See it here!

2011-09-28T10:01:00.000-04:00

WOW!! in the Practicon Fall 2011 CatalogYou have to see it to believe it!! The Fall 2011 Practicon Catalog has 285 new products, practical, innovative, and exciting. From our unique-to-Practicon Practicare Patient Communication Cards to new toys in the SMiLE AiSLE; from new toothbrush designs and imprint offers in SmileGoods to special offers on the DentaPod UV dental appliance sanitizer and storage case that destroys 99.9% of common bacteria and other microorganisms---You have to see it to believe it!!

Dental Trivia

2011-09-20T08:22:00.002-04:00

DID YOU KNOW: The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists has applied to the ADA Council on Dental Education and Licensure for recognition of dental anesthesiology as a dental specialty.DID YOU KNOW: 68% of private practitioners work as sole proprietors, 16.3% are in partnerships, 10.5% practice as employees, and 3.6% are independent contractors.DID YOU KNOW: For more information on the use of electronic prescriptions, one can go to the web site for the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs Script Standard: www.ncpdp.org/pdf/Eprescribing_fact_sheet.pdf. DID YOU KNOW: Individuals who pay cash for discretionary items rather than using credit or debit cards average spending 30% less on these “nice-to-have-but-not-a- necessity” items. Might be a helpful idea for managing personal expenditures.

CHANGE IS INEVITABLE

2011-08-30T08:14:00.000-04:00

Max Gunther, a journalist and author of 26 books, quipped, “When you’re in a tug-of-war with a tiger, give him the rope before he gets to your arm. You can always buy a new rope!”

Resistance to change, refusing to give the tiger the rope, creates stress, sleeplessness and hopelessness. Playing the new game by the old rules because one refuses to change results in burn out. When your practice or any aspect thereof, your life’s seasons, or relationships change, decide to adjust before that proverbial tiger gets to your arm.

Begin to adapt to inevitable change by changing your attitude, opening your mind to new opportunities. We’re not talking here about compromising your principles or ethical standards. We’re talking about adjusting your attitude to adapt to the inevitable changes in certain aspects of your practice and your life. Paul wrote, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Cor.6:6 One can choose to follow Paul’s example.

JUST DO IT!!

2011-08-16T12:03:00.001-04:00

To share a bit of insider information, I’ll tell you that Practicon operates with a theme, a new one each year. Our theme serves as a rallying cry to infuse all staff members with renewed enthusiasm for focusing on YOU, our customers, with the BEST in products and the FINEST service.

2011s theme: JUST DO IT! DO RIGHT. DO BETTER. DO TOGETHER.

How could this or a theme of your own creation affect your practice, your staff, and your patients?

RECARE SYSTEM CHECKUP

2011-08-10T10:21:00.001-04:00

The standard practice management advice is that an effective Recare System will enroll at least 70% to 80% of your active patients. A question, not often addressed, follows: How do we count active VS inactive patients?

An active patient in a General Practice is one who has been seen in the past 24 months, not including single visit emergencies who never returned for follow up care. An active patient in a Pediatric Dental Practice is one who has been seen in the past 18 months, not including single visit emergencies who never return, referrals from other healthcare providers who come for care with plans to return to the referring office, and patients who age out of the Pediatric Practice.

Count patients fitting the parameters. Then divide the total by 6 months if that is the frequency with which you see Recares. The quotient will be the number of Recares the practice could see if operating a 100% effective system. Calculate the average number of Recares actually seen per month. Divide that number by the 100% figure to determine how effective your system is.

Example: 1800 active patients who fit the criteria above
1800 active patients / 6months = 300 Recares per month for 100% effective system

200 Recares per month actual average
200 / 300 = 66% effective system

Water Equals Life

2011-08-03T17:53:00.000-04:00

“Practicon is privileged and humbled to give a portion of our SmileGoods toothbrush sales to a cause as dear as life itself---clean water.” That is a quote from the Practicon catalog and a Practicon action plan as well. We are donating to causelife (www.causelife.org, helping that organization provide 1000 clean water wells for one million people worldwide. Save BIGTIME on Practicon’s top quality toothbrushes (See page 203 of Practicon’s Fall catalog.) and help BIGTIME with life-saving clean water for people who otherwise have only contaminated water.

Dental Trivia

2011-07-26T08:20:00.000-04:00

Sometime in the 1st Century AD, Roman physician Cornelius Celsus recommended removing badly rotted teeth, the first person to do so.

Dr. Bernerd J. Cigrand (1866-1932) who rose to be Dean of the Illinois School of Dentistry was the Father of National Flag Day, June 14. Cigrand organized the first Flag Day celebration on June 14, 1885 while living and teaching in Wisconsin to commemorate the fact that the U.S. Congress had adapted the Stars and Stripes as the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777.

The first woman dentist in America was Emeline Roberts Jones who learned her skills alongside her dentist-husband. When he died in 1885, Emeline, using a portable dental chair, traveled from town to town caring for patients. Eventually she was accepted as a member of the Connecticut State Dental Society and the National Dental Association.

Patient Survey? Yes!!

2011-07-19T10:19:00.000-04:00

Want some valuable input about your practice? Send a survey to your patients via e-mail. Incidentally, it is assumed that you now collect e-mail addresses along with other pertinent information on your new patient registration form or on your patient of record data/health update form.

Surveys can be written with specific questions about topics such as physical facility, hours of operation, appointment time/day choices, staff courtesy and competence, menu of available services, etc. Another type of survey is generalized with only two questions: (1) What do you like best about our practice? and (2) What about our practice would you like us to change or discontinue?

Low Tech Boost for Your Reception Room

2011-07-12T08:09:00.000-04:00

The first sign of patient welcome is shouted or whispered or ignored by the appearance of your reception room. Notice the use of the word “reception” VS “waiting” room. One indicates welcome; the other, boring use of time. A low tech idea for a welcoming touch in your reception room: a bulletin board displaying staff photos, names and positions. Also include the dentists’ photos with names if there are multiple dentists. (I recently saw this idea used in a clinic reception room in one of the premier medical centers in the country. It was an attention-getter.)

DRAMATICALLY IMPROVE EFFICIENCY WITH TWO-WAY RADIOS

2011-06-20T09:40:00.000-04:00

The old axiom, “Time is money.” is as true today as when first coined. For those offices with several operatories and multiple team members, walking between areas of the office to communicate can be a serious time consumer. Consider a solution many dental offices use: the Blue Star BR777 Portable Business Two-Way Radio with a choice of hands-free voice activation. Small yet powerful, these radios allow instant, discreet professional communication between team members. Surveys have shown that use of two-way radios can allow the scheduling of an additional patient per operatory per day. That’s a significant increase in efficiency and, therefore, in income. For more information, see pg 138 of the Spring/Summer 2011 Practicon catalog or shop on-line at www.practicon.com.

BUDGET REALISTICALLY

2011-06-07T08:17:00.000-04:00

Base your practice budget on real dollars. Another way to express that thought: financial planning for your practice should be based on collections, not production. Production for a given day, week or month may be significant, but it must be reduced by fees that cannot be collected, professional courtesy write offs, uncollectable insurance payment write offs, state-scheduled fees allowed on welfare patients, failed treatment that must be delivered a second time, etc. Plan your practice finances using dollars-in-hand rather than dollars charged. This year’s expenses should be planned based on last year’s collections.

DENTAL TRIVIA

2011-05-31T08:38:00.000-04:00

15th century Chinese used bamboo-handled toothbrushes with bristles made of
stiff neck hairs of Siberian boars. Nylon-bristled toothbrushes were not introduced until 1937.

The Revolutionary War patriot, Paul Revere, was renowned as a silversmith. He was also a fine dentist.

DMD stands for Dentariae Medicinal Doctorae and was first awarded by Harvard
School of Dental Medicine. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. Academic
requirements for the two degrees are identical, set by the American Dental
Association.

WHO SAID THAT?

2011-05-24T08:06:00.000-04:00

Are you old enough to remember Archie Bunker (Actor Carol O’Conner) of 1970s TV fame? If not, perhaps you’ve heard of Archie and his infamous malapropisms and hideous grammar. “Archie-isms” can still bring a laugh.

“The Mets winnin’ the pennant.…that would be a miracle. Yeah….like the immaculate connection.”

“It’s just a pigment of your imagination.”

“It’s like tryin’ to make a sow’s purse outa silk!”

“I got nothin’ against mankind. It’s people I don’t trust.”

“It’s moments like this where the only thing that holds a marriage together is the husband bein’ big enough to step back and see where his wife is wrong.”

“Charity begins at home----and sometimes never leaves there!”

STAFF MEMBERS MATTER

2011-05-10T14:41:00.001-04:00

Staff members, you are paramount to the success of the practice which provides
your income. The dentist’s skill, personality, reputation and management expertise are vitally important, but nothing Dr. She or Dr. He can do supplants the warmth, concern, manners, efficiency and thoroughness with which you meet, greet, treat and process each patient or potential patient.

DID YOU KNOW?

2011-05-03T09:26:00.000-04:00

The U. S. Constitution has only 4,400 words. It is the oldest and shortest written constitution of any major government in the world.

In 1647 the Massachusetts legislature passed a law requiring every community of 50 families or households to establish a free public grammar school to teach reading, writing, ciphering, history, geography, and Bible study. In the late 18th century, John Adams, later to become our second president, wrote, “Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people.”

Thomas Jefferson said, “Virtue is not hereditary.” Today we still recognize that virtue, defined as moral excellence or goodness, is a self-developed quality in human nature. While one may be born with a propensity toward goodness, it is neither given to one person by another nor is it a permanent quality. It must be continually cultivated and exercised day by day and moment by moment.

DENTAL HISTORY COMES ALIVE

2011-04-26T08:32:00.000-04:00

An irresistible book has just come to Practicon’s attention: The Dental Patient’s Little Book of History, Humor and Trivia. Researched and written by Don Dible, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Dental Soul, this paperback is packed with historical facts about dentistry presented in a humorous, quick-read format that grabs the interest of dental professionals and lay people alike.

From the legend of the toothworm, an explanation of the cause of toothache recorded on a stone tablet found in Nineveh, the capital of the ancient Assyrian Empire, to the founding of the American Dental Association in 1859 to factual trivia of the 20th century, this little book is a fascinating trip into dental history and memorabilia.

Watch for its debut in Practicon’s April 2011 catalog.

WHO SAID THAT?

2011-04-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

“The greatest accomplishments are not in never falling, but in getting up every time.” Vince Lombardi

“Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” St. Francis of Assisi

“Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never---in nothing great or small, large of petty---never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense.” Sir Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of England during World War II

CHILDREN’S ORAL HEALTH, A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO BEGIN A LIFELONG HEALTH HABIT

2011-04-12T08:25:00.000-04:00

For over a generation now, dentists have had the knowledge, materials, and skill to begin youngsters on a lifelong path of oral health. Ask a child, “How long should your teeth last?”, and provide him or her a quick, accurate answer, “As long as the end of your nose! With proper care teeth were meant to last a lifetime.”

Quoting Dr. Stephen J. Goepferd in an article written 25 years ago for the ASDC Journal of Dentistry for Children, “Because of their current knowledge about nursing caries, the effectiveness pit and fissure sealants, fluorides, factors that influence dental caries, and the most recent and appropriate feeding and dietary recommendations, dentists are in a singular position to assist parents in rearing children who are caries-free. If we begin before the onset of disease, our chances for success are greatly enhanced. Children’s oral health should not be ignored or neglected until three years of age. Increasingly, parents of infants and toddlers are requesting preventive dental services for their children.”

Peruse Practicon’s catalog for a wealth of items to help dental teams teach and inspire both parents and children on the caries-free quest.

ARE ALL PATIENTS TREATED SIMILARLY IN YOUR OFFICE?

2011-04-06T08:08:00.001-04:00

“Treated similarly” obviously does not refer to like clinical procedures. It refers to courtesy, friendliness, empathy, care, and efficiency of the appointment. As individuals, the dental team brings an amalgamation of preconceptions and experiences to the office. The dentist and staff must use caution to avoid judging each patient and then treating them according to their own preconceptions or prejudices based on past experience. No obvious delight with extra time and concern for Mrs. Gotrocks VS conspicuous impatience and hurried treatment for Mr. Havenot. Since this is most likely never a problem in your office, please consider this a simple “blogged” reminder to those few other offices in which it may be.

OFFICE APPEARANCE DOES MATTER---A LOT!

2011-03-22T08:04:00.000-04:00

Think the old faded sign out front of your office doesn’t matter?
Think the overgrown, weed-riddled office landscaping doesn’t matter?
Think the finger-printed, cracked paint around the office doesn’t matter?
Think the stained carpet and worn reception room or operatory chairs don’t matter?
Think the bug carcasses in the overhead light panels don’t matter?
Think a messy lab visible to patients doesn’t matter?
THINK AGAIN!!
Successful dental practices are not necessarily in the latest, greatest buildings, but they are in the cleanest, most squared away, most updated, attractive spaces. Suggestion: You and your staff spend a staff meeting walking around the office, inside and outside, observing and making notes. Then plan ways to bring it to excellence.

WHO SAID THAT??

2011-03-15T13:08:00.000-04:00

“Life is not so much about avoiding black cloud days as it is about learning to dance in the rain.” Anonymous

“My definite observation: The staff takes its cues from the doctor in punctuality, enthusiasm, attitude, professional conduct, caring, dress, neatness, and industriousness, to name several critical areas.” Henry Robinson, DDS

“There is no right way to do something wrong.” Anonymous

“Preach the gospel at all times and, when necessary, use words.” St. Francis of Assisi

MARKETING VIA WWW

2011-03-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Is your practice website current, attractive, informative? If not, make it so! Many patients, particularly newcomers in an area, find their way to a provider by searching websites. A hint to extend practice web exposure: check website services available through your state dental society. Many state societies offer a “Find-a-Dentist” feature that links directly to members’ practices via a dentist’s name, city, county or specialty. New patients via www---one of the most effective, least expensive marketing tools.

APPLAUD YOUR DENTAL ASSISTANTS

2011-03-01T10:25:00.001-05:00

Dental Assistants Week is March 6-12, 2011, sanctioned by the American Dental Assistants Association and the American Dental Association. Think for a moment about operating your busy practice without your multi-talented Assistants, (over-whelming thought, huh?) and you’ll surely think of ways to express a sincere “Thank you” to these invaluable team members. Any way from verbal acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication to a lunch out to a small gift can tell your Assistants just how much you value their roles in the practice. Celebrate Assistants Week, and then remember to say “Thanks” the other 358 days of the year also.

2011-02-22T08:14:00.000-05:00

Want some new, innovative dental paraphernalia to use in your office, to make you more efficient, to add more enjoyment to your practice, to increase your profits? Regularly peruse Practicon’s on-line catalog to find indispensable and unusual items not seen elsewhere. We search for and develop new products with you, our valued customer, and the enrichment of your dental practice front and center in our minds.

FUN

2011-02-15T09:32:00.000-05:00

FUN --- wholesome fun is a necessary ingredient in any successful endeavor. Don’t forget to enjoy your practice, your co-workers, your family and friends, your work and your outside-of-work activities. A wise axiom reads, “Laughter is good for the soul.” All work and no play does indeed make one’s life and one’s practice dull!

More a giver than a taker be.

2011-02-08T15:16:00.001-05:00

A friend for whom I have great respect tells me his grandfather had a wise bit of advice---“Live so that you leave the woodpile higher than you found it.” For all you city dwellers who are scratching your head over the meaning of that homespun advice, I can summarize, “Give back!”

Said another way, no matter your position, owner or staff member, take only what you and your family need from your practice, from your community, from your place of worship, from the organizations to which you belong. Do so while seeking ways to repay, to contribute, to give back, so that you, in fact, enrich your living and work environments, leaving each area in your sphere of influence better because you were there.

On Leadership

2011-02-02T09:43:00.000-05:00

On Leadership from John Wooden, former coach of the record-setting UCLA basketball team:
*A leader’s most powerful ally is his or her own example.

*The most essential thing for a leader to have is the respect of those under his or her supervision. It starts with giving them respect.

*Listen to those under your supervision. Really listen. Don’t act as though you’re listening and let it go in one ear and out the other. Faking it is worse than not doing it at all. A good motto is “Others, too, have brains.”

Dentists, you are the leaders of your practices. Do these Wooden thoughts hit home with you?

Enthusiasm

2011-01-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart.” said Paul of Tarsus. Work at it with enthusiasm he might have added. Enthusiasm shows. It shows to family, to friends, to staff, to patients; it is a deep-seated quality that leaves a lasting positive impression. Excitement, on the other hand, is a quick flash of light, a momentary boost that quickly abates.

Question yourself---are you excited about your practice as this new year begins or are you enthused about your practice and its possibilities for this year and all the years to come? Choose enthusiasm, and if it’s missing, question yourself about what it would take to generate that “TGIM” (Thank goodness it’s Monday) attitude that you might have experienced when you first began practice. Further, talk with advisers, with peers, with staff, with family to explore ways of recapturing ENTHUSIASM with capital letters. You’ll be glad you did!

Studies of America

2011-01-18T08:20:00.001-05:00

A bit of fascinating history about our country: In 1831 the French lawyer/judge, Alexis de Tocqueville, visited the United States in order to better understand this experiment in freedom, this nation that followed no heretofore used mold for governing and government. Upon his return to France, de Tocqueville wrote a book, Democracy in America, the best definitive study of American culture and the American Constitutional system published up to that time. One of his most frequently quoted passages reads:

“I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers, and it was not there; in her fertile fields and boundless prairies, and it was not there; in her rich mines and her vast world commerce, and it was not there. Not until I went to the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.”

Do we Americans who love our country dare to ask ourselves now----How good are we?

The Purpose-Driven Life

2011-01-11T10:46:00.000-05:00

“Whether leading in business, education, politics, or family, character always trumps charisma. What we desperately need in our leaders today is strong character.” Written by Rick Warren, author of the best-selling book “The Purpose-Driven Life”, this statement applies equally well to dental practices. The practice that is led by a dentist of strong character will succeed in ways that the practice led by a dentist willing to compromise on matters of principle can never achieve. Core values such as honesty, integrity, fairness, selflessness, and a servant’s heart are essential in leading the practice that reaches its potential.

The Importance of Improvement

2011-01-07T12:25:00.001-05:00

How could anything uttered by a French philosopher sometime in the mid-1700s apply to our lives and work today? Francois Voltaire, 1694 – 1778, warned that we must not make “the perfect the enemy of the good”. Think about that statement. While you’re waiting to make your practice, your staff, your patient care, your life outside the office PERFECT, (the way you were taught in dental school things must be) the opportunity to reach and maintain GOOD might slip away. Improvement in any aspect of your life or your practice begins now with one step to progress to GOOD. And from GOOD one can strive toward PERFECT.

For Dental Educators

2010-11-12T15:50:00.007-05:00

Practicon has made a lot of friends in the dental community throughout our 28 years, and many of you have come to know and value our deep assortment of "Practical Innovations" throughout our catalog. The Practicon Product Development Team is always searching for new, helpful, and unique items designed to control costs, improve efficiency, maximize patient care, and help your practice stay successful.

But did you know Practicon is also working hard to improve dental education?

Practicon is proud to be the exclusive distributor of Frasaco dental education products in the U.S. and Canada. Made in Germany, Frasaco designs and manufactures a premium line of patient simulators, dental typodonts, and accessories used worldwide for pre-clinical and post-graduate dental training. Frasaco is found in all types of dental programs and curriculums, from dental medicine and continuing education to dental hygiene and dental assisting. If you're in the business of dental education, please visit http://www.frasacousa.com/, or call us toll-free and ask for your Frasaco sales representative.

Recapture your patients who have dental insurance

2010-08-30T09:12:00.001-04:00

The last two or three months of the year are an excellent time to
contact your dental insurance patients to remind them that if they do
not schedule overdue recare visits or appointments for diagnosed
incomplete treatment, they will lose unused dental benefits for the
year. Not wanting to lose any benefits, a number will schedule
immediately.

Introducing 275 New Products!

2010-08-17T09:00:00.003-04:00

Once again, Practicon has gone to great lengths to bring you some of the most innovative products on the market. Our Fall 2010 catalog includes 275 new items, designed to save your office time and money!

Stay in touch with your patients with our Practicare patient communication cards. These cards have extremely high quality designs that your clients will proudly display. Use them for appointment reminders, welcome greetings, and any other type of correspondence!

We've added new products to the popular Smilegoods line as well. There are five new styles of toothbrushes! Our unfilled 6" x 10" Smilegoods Patient Paks offer 50% more room than our original Patient Paks. The new Sparkle Patient Paks offer extra flash to your practice building giveaways. Also, by popular request, Smilegoods Floss now features a Mint Waxed Tape, as well as a Waxed Cinnamon flavor.

In addition, we've added new sugar-free candies, new hygiene instruments, new giveaway items for younger patients, and much, much more! Click here to request a Fall 2010 catalog . To see our new products at www.practicon.com, click here.

"Soaring to New Heights"

2010-05-24T12:27:00.003-04:00

That's the theme for the 63rd Annual Session of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Are you going? If so, it's time to get packing! The AAPD kicks off this Thursday, May 27, at the Chicago Hilton and continues through the weekend. This year's annual event promises to be the most informative and most exciting session yet.

Practicon's roots grow deep in pediatric dentistry, and it remains a huge part of our culture today. We proudly support the AAPD as an exhibitor, so please stop by and check us out (Booth # 1509 in the NW Exhibit Hall). Ann, Scott, Page, and Will all look forward to seeing you!

Dentapod UV Kills 99.9 % of Germs Using Ultraviolet Light!

2010-05-03T09:46:00.027-04:00

How do you instruct your patients to sanitize their retainers and other orthodontic appliances? Most offices tell their patients to simply brush it with their toothbrush or soak it in a cleaning solution. However, toothbrushes are often unsanitary and solutions can be messy and sometimes discolor your appliance.
Practicon, always looking for practical solutions to such problems, has found the ideal solution. We are proud to introduce the Dentapod UV. Using ultraviolet light, the Dentapod UV destroys 99.9% of common bacteria and other microorganisms! It works with most orthodontic appliances, aligners, retainers, whitening trays, mouth guards, night guards, and partial dentures.
Patients simply rinse their retainer or appliance, shake off the excess water, place it in the container, and press the on button. In only 8 minutes, the unit turns off and your appliance is sanitized. Plus, the Dentapod UV is compact enough to use as a storage case and far stronger than regular plastic cases. It will run for about 60 days on 4 AA batteries (batteries are included).

Decrease Germs in the Office

2010-01-15T08:36:00.018-05:00

Do you have your patients rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to their appointment? If not, it is a terrific idea to start! Decrease the risk of losing staff due to sick days and spreading germs to guests! Using a rinse prior to any procedure not only freshens the patient's breath, but reduces the amount of oral microbes that can leave the mouth in airborne particles and splatter.

Practicon offers a solution that can be easily implemented in any office. Dr Tichenor's Antiseptic Peppermint Single-Use Packets are ideal for pre-rinsing. Made from all-natural oil of peppermint, Dr Tichenor's mouthwash is also ideal as a soothing, healing post surgical rinse. The disposable packets provide an easy, sanitary way to distribute the rinse and help reduce germs in the workplace.

Holiday Fun

2009-12-16T10:39:00.008-05:00

Throughout the month, throughout the world, friends and families are gathering together to share the joy, peace, and harmony of the holidays. Our Practicon family recently celebrated some holiday magic of our own at the annual Practicon Christmas Party. Our beautifully-prepared holiday feast was accented with fun, laughter, and music. Employees and their guests joined together in playing games, singing carols, and giving thanks for our many blessings.

And thankful, we are indeed! During this season of economic fears and high unemployment, Practicon continues to grow and grow. More and more of you are turning (and returning) to Practicon in search of Practical Innovations for Dentistry! To each of our customers: we value you, we thank you, and we wish the best for you, your familiy, and your practice. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Best Wishes in the New Year!

What a Prospective Associate Needs to Know About a Practice He/She is Joining

2009-12-11T15:28:00.000-05:00

This is the type of information an associate should ask, and the senior doctor should be prepared to answer as the interviewing process and negotiations proceed, before a final associateship contract is signed.

1. Review for me the main characteristics you are searching for in an associate.
2. Will the current staff remain employed and can they support another doctor or will more staff be added?
3. Is the entering associate to absorb patient overflow or build his/her own patient base?

View this complete article , or view all of Ann Page Griffin's Practice Management documents.

Meet Your Practicon Customer Care Representatives!

2009-10-30T12:00:00.002-04:00

At Practicon, our focus is to bring you the best quality customer care possible. You'll always speak with a friendly and helpful associate when you call. We'd like to introduce you to some of our team members and give an inside look into a day in Practicon's Customer Care Center. In these pictures, you'll see some of our associates working hard to assist valued customers like you!

Help Protect Your Patients and Staff from the H1N1 Virus

2009-10-09T12:01:00.001-04:00

Don't let the H1N1 virus wreak havoc on your practice. One of the easiest ways to help keep patients and staff safe is with routine sterilization and disinfection. Practicon offers brand name disinfectants and sterilization products to assist in combating the flu virus this season. Our Lysol® brand Infection control products offer safety and effectiveness against a broad microbial spectrum. Try our versatile Opti·Cide³ Disinfectant Cleaner and Decontaminant for a 3-minute kill rate!. Opti·Cide³ can be used as a surface disinfectant, an instrument pre-soak or as an ultrasonic cleaning solution.

Questions About Our Website?

2009-09-28T10:59:00.010-04:00

We, at Practicon, are extremely happy to offer our state of the art website to make your shopping experience as simple and pleasant as possible. Though we feel confident you will have no trouble navigating our site, we have taken the time to compile visitors' most common inquiries in our "Frequently Asked Questions" section.
There, you will find answers to such common issues as a forgotten password, how to change an order, or how to order online from your catalog. If your question is not answered, you can click on "Contact Practicon" and get an answer from a friendly Customer Care Associate. Thank you for visiting Practicon.com. We are confident you'll find your online shopping experience delightful!

Easily and painlessly test for oral cancer

2009-09-21T16:33:00.001-04:00

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 30,000 people are newly diagnosed with oral cancer every year in the United States, with one person dying from this disease every hour of every day. Early detection of oral abnormalities means early intervention and simpler, less invasive treatment. Best of all, if found early, oral cancer treatment is 80% to 90% successful.

Even experts cannot clinically differentiate a precancer or early oral cancer from a benign white or red spot with just a visual exam. The OralCDx Oral Brush Biopsy Kit allows you to easily and painlessly test common, unexplained spots that may in fact be precancerous or cancerous. The brush biopsy helps rule out the chance that these spots might be something serious.

OralCDx provides everything you need to perform a painless oral brush biopsy in minutes at chairside. Simply mail the slide and test forms in the convenient prepaid mailer to the CDx lab where specially-trained pathologists will analyze the specimen with assistance of advanced computer analysis. OralCDx cost is reimbursable by many national dental insurance companies, including Cigna.

Each OralCDx biopsy test includes a sealed, sterile biopsy brush, two fixative packages, a glass slide and slide holder, a prepaid mailer box, a test requisition form, billing and reimbursement information, and instructions. ADA accepted. Includes 12 complete biopsy tests and instructions.

Looking for a unique baby shower gift?

2009-09-11T14:28:00.005-04:00

Help make today's toothless moment a tomorrow's treasured memory! The Tooth Fairy's Baby Tooth Bank provides a special place to organize and save each fallen baby tooth — and reward money! Underneath there are spaces to record the special dates each tooth was lost. Choose from baby blue, mint green, pink, yellow or primary colors. Comes gift boxed. Measures 4" high x 6" square.

Introducing online invoice payment!

2009-09-04T15:48:00.004-04:00

Want to pay your bill online? Guess what – now you can! Practicon.com is now offering the ability to pay your bill online. Simply go to practicon.com, look for the "pay bill online" link in the customer service section near the bottom of the homepage, log in and enter your payment information. We currently accept Discover, Master Card, Visa and American Express. Save time by paying your bill online today!

Our Biggest Catalog Ever!!!

2009-08-28T09:55:00.002-04:00

Practicon is well known for bringing the newest innovations in dentistry to your office. We have continued in that manner by releasing our biggest catalog ever! The Fall 2009 version adds over 200 exciting new products to our already impressive inventory. Economic times may be tough, but Practicon will help you stay ahead with our time and money saving products.
Not yet received your Fall '09 catalog? Simply click here to request one at Practicon.com. While you're at our website, click the New Items tab to browse through our new additions!

Ho`olaule`a (Celebration)

2009-08-24T11:45:00.003-04:00

I found the most helpful website today; it's a list of commonly used English words and phrases and their Hawaiian translations. In my search, I found numerous "translator" sites that promised to take my English word and, on click, display the Hawaiian. Unfortunately, most of my submitted entries came back "word not found - please try again!"

Obviously, I'm thinking ahead to the 150th Annual ADA Session in Honolulu, Hawaii. In addition to brushing up on our Hawaiian, the Practicon team is already scouring through our inventory of new and innovative products - we have a lot of packing to do, so it's best to get started early!

Are you going? The ADA is currently expecting 24,000 attendees, and registration is way up over last year. General session opens September 30, 2009, and World Market Place runs October 1-3 in the Exhibitor's Hall. We're easy to find - Booth # 1338. See you then...

Maika`i la!

Organize protection supplies while maximizing counter space

2009-08-10T09:20:00.005-04:00

Save valuable counter space and speed donning time between patients with glove and mask dispensers from Practicon. Our dispensers keep personal protection supplies organized while still keeping items close at hand. They also offer the added bonus of being able to keep an eye on inventory levels! Glove and mask dispensers from Practicon are available in a variety of styles designs to suit every need.

A Simple Way to Help Patients Fight Tooth Decay

2009-08-03T08:13:00.018-04:00

Tooth decay is a problem that plagues every sector of our society. Many oral health problems are preventable with a good hygiene regimen. We're told from early in our lives to brush at least twice a day, floss, and use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Are we brushing long enough though? Many experts agree that it takes 2-3 minutes of brushing to thoroughly clean your teeth. How many of us, especially among children, time ourselves to make sure we're brushing properly? The Brushing Sand Timer is an inexpensive way to help your patients spend enough time brushing. The colorful design will help remind your quick-brushing patients to brush longer. To help with your marketing efforts, they are also imprintable! Visit Practicon.com to examine the full line of Brushing Sand Timers and help your patients toward better oral health!

Tell us what you think!

2009-07-24T10:35:00.009-04:00

Product reviews can be a big help to customers as they deliberate on the product that’s right for them. Learning more about an item through other’s experiences and understanding the “pros and cons” are all part of the research available to us when shopping online.

Product Ratings and Reviews have now arrived at Practicon.com! Customers can rate and write about any Practicon product, including YOU! Be the first to rate a product…or read other users’ reviews and buy with confidence!

Try it today at Practicon.com!

What Makes an Associateship Work?

2009-07-10T16:10:00.004-04:00

The decision to hire an associate is often a difficult one for the dentist and, perhaps, his/her family. The reasons run the gamut from personal/emotional through technological. The technological issues, including practice statistics, staff retention, shared practice management, physical facility and layout, business systems and such, can be worked and generally agreed upon. The emotional issues are much more difficult to address. However, there is no choice except to work the personal/emotional agendas of the dentists involved. Successful associateships feel good. Both the junior and senior dentists enjoy peace of mind and a sense of
security that comes from having the right person with whom to practice.

Click here to read this complete article.

Click here to see all of our practice management documents.

Practicon's Value Protection Guarantee

2009-07-02T10:51:00.005-04:00

Here at Practicon, your satisfaction means everything to us. That's why we offer our Value Protection Guarantee with every order, regardless of size.

Everyday value pricing. If you find a lower regular catalog price on the same brand item within 30 days of your invoice date, we will credit your account for the full difference.

No small order processing charges. There are no "small" orders to us. Every order is important and valued. You will not be charged extra fees if your order is below a certain amount.

No extra charges for open account ordering. Prepaid or credit, you pay the same value price.

Old-fashioned customer service. When you contact us, your call will be answered by a friendly sales consultant that is sensitive to your needs and here for one reason only, you!

More than anything else, we value your continued satisfaction. With every order received, you must be completely satisfied. Period. If not, we are happy to exchange the item, credit your account, or refund your purchase price without a hassle. Guaranteed.

Practicon.com Exclusives and Clearance Items!!!

2009-06-26T09:30:00.000-04:00

Can't find what you need in your Practicon catalog? Visit Practicon.com and take a look at our internet exclusives! We have a wide variety of office decor, furniture, and wall murals to help make your office warm and inviting. Our children's toys, furniture, and toy storage units will make visiting the dentist a pleasure for your younger patients. You'll also find turbines and light bulbs that are not listed in your catalog!

While you're shopping, don't forget to check out our clearance items. You'll find outstanding deals on some terrific products! We have toothbrushes, clothing, instruments, and more items that have been drastically discounted!

Do you have a better idea?

2009-06-19T16:46:00.002-04:00

We are always searching for new, innovative products that help dental professionals maximize productivity, patient care and profitability. While we search for and design many of our products in response to your needs and suggestions, many more come to us directly from dentists and staff members who are motivated to improve their practice and profession. We value different and superbly useful products as much as we value our customers.

If you have and actual product:

Placing an existing product in the Practicon Dental catalog is simple. We evaluate a product sample and/or related inventory information. If we can project that your product will be a high-quality, suitable, practical and profitable addition to our catalog, we will add it to our line as our advertising schedule allows.

If you have an idea:

If your product is only in the idea stage, the evaluation process is not as straightforward. We advise anyone with an unprotected idea to consider the issue of a non-disclosure agreement prior to any cooperative discussions in order to protect all interested parties. Since the possibility exists that we may already be considering a similar idea, we are not able to review unsolicited new product ideas without a suitably specific non-disclosure agreement.

Once the non-disclosure issue has been addressed, we are happy to spend a few moments discussing with you how to best proceed with respect to manufacturing your product and/or having your product listed in the Practicon Dental catalog. As our time allows, we can review your idea and offer free advice from a marketing or manufacturing standpoint. Our primary skills are marketing, however we have established a network of contract manufacturers to produce several products of our own design when set-up costs are not prohibitive. Often injection molding dies can cost into the tens of thousands. Your product may be easily fabricated or justify high set-up costs.

If you have an idea or an actual product, feel free to contact us by email or by visiting us at http://practicon.com.

Desirable Qualities in an Associate

2009-06-12T14:32:00.002-04:00

There are definite differences between an associate and a partner. An associate is hired to provide clinical services, but may be uninvolved in practice management. Once the associate begins to buy into the practice, he/she becomes a partner, a financial and, perhaps, management commitment that is much greater than that of an associate.

Senior doctors who contemplate bringing in an associate may wish to have the candidate tested psychologically to make four determinations:

Is there satisfactory interpersonal compatibility?

Is the level of dominance or aggression of the entering doctor acceptable to the senior?

Does the young doctor have a high sense of integrity?

Does the prospective partner have a strong work ethic?

Perhaps a key word in choosing the right associate is continuity. After a dynamic leader reduces work load or retires, the level of enthusiasm and excellence that the senior initiated during earlier years will have to be maintained. Can an associate who is to become a partner continue and even enhance all that has been
built?

Click here to read this complete article.

Click here to see all of our practice management documents.

Economical Smilegoods Floss!

2009-06-05T08:45:00.002-04:00

Practicon is proud to introduce the SmileGoods brand of dental floss! SmileGoods floss is similar in quality and style to other brands, but at an incredible price! Compare our prices and see how the SmileGoods line can save money for your practice. Each pocket-sized container is attractively color coded by style and flavor. Choose from plain waxed or unwaxed, mint or bubblegum waxed, and Premium (PTFE) mint or unflavored styles. SmileGoods gives you all of the quality and variety you expect, without the expense. Visit www.practicon.com to explore this exciting new line!

Take another look at our logo — its new!

2009-05-29T15:59:00.008-04:00

After much consideration and numerous customer opinion surveys, consensus led us to adopt this new design for 2009. Our first logo, active since 1982, was a stylized typodont, reflecting our founding roots in dental health education. Our new Logo is an evolution to a smile — a smile that symbolizes the dental health mission we share with you, that conveys our enjoyment in bringing you innovative products, and that reflects our warm, friendly service.

Gain Referrals From Your Patients’ Physicians

2009-05-22T12:24:00.011-04:00

Want referrals from physicians? Send a version of the following letter, enclosing a peel-and-stick label as the example shows. Note: if you use this idea, check first with an attorney versed in patient privacy issues.

Dear Dr. ____________,
Recently we completed a thorough dental examination for one of your patients, Ann G. Brown. We are delighted that Ann has chosen us to provide her dental care.
Our practice is deeply committed to the total health and well being of our patients and to the ideals of preventive dentistry. We work closely with our patients to assure a lifetime of oral health.
If you have information that would be helpful for us as we treat this patient, or if you have questions about Ann’s dental condition, please contact our office: phone- 252-355-0981 or doe,dds@aol.com. Enclosed is a label which can be attached to Ann’s chart in your office for easy reference.
Sincerely,

John L. Doe, D.D.S.

LABEL:

Patient Name: Ann Brown	For dental questions, contact:
Patient DOB: 05/22/1979	John L. Doe, D.D.S.
Blood Pressure: 120/80	112 Ash Street, Greenville, NC 27834
Date: 5/22/2009	252-355-0981 or doedds@aol.com

Note: the label mentions the patient’s blood pressure. The fact that this patient’s dentist monitors blood pressure indicates to the physician and his staff that you give complete, careful patient care. If you do not currently take patients’ blood pressure, consider doing so.

Product Spotlight : Hahn Twin Forceps

2009-05-15T10:27:00.007-04:00

Invented by a dentist, Hahn Twin Articulating Forceps allow you to obtain more accurate occlusal markings and more efficient occlusal adjustments. Its clever, double-spring design with serrated jaws allow you to hold materials at both ends and eliminate two separate instruments:

Hold articulating paper on one end and gauze on the other. Dry the occlusal surface with the gauze, and then mark it with the articulating paper before it becomes wet again.

Hold a combination of two different colors of articulating paper. Use one color to mark CO/MIP and another color to mark excursive movements. Or, use one color to mark CR and the other color to mark the CR-CO slide.

Hold two pieces of the same paper in one unit, reducing the need to replace the paper or hand off two instruments.

Practicon LIVE!

2009-05-08T16:45:00.005-04:00

May is a busy month as the Practicon Road Show continues, and we invite all our friends to join us!

The week ahead kicks off the California Dental Association - Spring Scientific Session at the Anaheim Convention Center, and you can visit Practicon all weekend long in the Exhibit Hall. Matt and I will be on hand to feature new products, answer questions, and make friends. Save 10% off regular prices on all orders placed at the show; Premier Rewards Members save even more!

The following weekend, thousands of dental professionals will head to beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii, for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Practicon will be there too, and we'll feature practical innovations for pediatric dental treatment and education. For those of you fortunate enough to attend the A.A.P.D. this month, don't leave the island without first stopping by to say "Aloha!"

So here's a recap of where and when to see us LIVE:

California Dental Association (CDA), Booth # 764: May 15-17, 2009
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), Booth # 112: May 22-24, 2009

Money Saving Tips from Practicon

2009-04-30T16:40:00.009-04:00

In this harsh economic climate, we're all looking for ways to save money. Practicon has several great ways to improve your bottom line and keep your practice running smoothly! Visit www.practicon.com to take advantage of these money-saving tips.

First of all, Practicon offers the Premier Rewards Program, which will save you 10% off of every item, every day! Never pay full price for your items again! Our annual membership not only gives you terrific prices; it gives you points that can be redeemed at different intervals to save you even more!

Next, get even greater discounts by taking advantage of items that offer quantity breaks. Practicon offers many items that get less expensive when you purchase more! Not only will this save you money on your items, but will also save time, by not needing to reorder as often!

Finally, minimize your shipping costs by consolidating your orders. Our current maximum charge for regular ground shipping in the continental US is $14.99! ($23.99 in Canada. International charges vary) That's for all orders over $200! Instead of placing 4 orders for $200, place 1 $800 order and pay no extra shipping!

Practicon Introduces over 125 New Products this Spring!

2009-04-24T15:00:00.002-04:00

Springtime is upon us and with it, Practicon has added many new products to its dental products line. Try our delicious Dr. John's Xylitol-sweetened lollipops to give your patients a treat that helps prevent tooth decay. We are also pleased to introduce the next generation FenderMate, which allows completion of most Class II restorations without rings! Our new ContacEZ Dental Strips will end the chore of taking crowns, inlays, and onlays in and out of the mouth for adjustments.

Plus, don't forget that dental student graduating this spring; come visit our Dental Gifts section to find the perfect dental-themed gift!

HOW TO CHECK YOUR RECARE SYSTEM EFFECTIVENESS

2009-04-17T14:33:00.002-04:00

Recare system effectiveness is calculated based on the number of active patients in the practice. If a practice has 1800 active patients, the calculation follows:

1800 active patients, each to be recalled every 6 months
1800 ÷ 6 months = 300 Recare patients per month with 100% effective system
160 Recare patients per month actual average
160 R patients ÷ 300 R patients = 53% effective system
Minimum goal = 75% to 80% effective system
1800 active patients X .80 = 1440 active patients
1440 R patients ÷ 6 months = 240 R patients per month with 80% effective system
240 R patients (80% effectiveness) minus 160 R patients (actual average) = 80
additional Recare patients per month

So—what difference does it make if 80 additional Recare patients are seen each month? First, you and your staff can assure better oral health for almost 30% more of your patients, a most important factor. Second, multiply your recare fee by 80 more patients to calculate the increased income per month. Multiply the monthly increase by 12 months to predict the dramatic monetary effect an 80% effective Recare system can have on your annual income. A win-win difference for your practice.

Product Spotlight: WireGuard - Now 30% Lighter!

2009-04-10T14:37:00.007-04:00

During normal operation, digital sensor cables kink, coil and bend. Heavy objects set or are rolled over them and can damage their insulation. Over time, this constant wear can cause a short that makes them inoperable, costing a fortune in repair or replacement.

Invented and proven in a busy practice, WireGuard extends the life of sensitive digital radiography sensors by protecting cables from damage due to kinks and compression. It installs over any cable in minutes and stays in place for the life of the sensor. Available in two lengths, each kit is complete with parts and instructions for one sensor installation.

Small Change in Wording Makes Big Difference in Staff Commitment

2009-04-03T08:40:00.001-04:00

Want to encourage staff members to feel: “This is my practice too, and I will work hard to make it the best?” Doing so is a multi-step process, a sort of journey that takes years of development as any Dr.-leader-owner knows. As all journeys do, this one begins with a single step. A good first step toward developing this concept of total staff involvement and commitment to the practice is to use the phrase, “My staff works WITH me.” rather than “My staff works FOR me.” The dentists who sincerely embrace this idea can inspire staff members to feel more involved, committed to teamwork with a greater sense of responsibility for the practice.

Earth Friendly Products for Your Office!

2009-03-26T08:48:00.019-04:00

Practicon is excited to introduce our line of "Green" products! These items have much less negative impact on the environment than many of their counterparts.

Help keep approximately 100 million plastic HVE tips from landfills each year! The ECOtip HVE tip is made from renewable, sustainable paper and coated with a food grade material that prevents moisture absorption. Plus, they fit all standard HVE valves!

Our GreenClean Alginate Remover is pH neutral and biodegradable. It safely and easily cleans impression trays, spatulas, and bowls. Help cut down on disposable products in landfills with reusable impression trays and Green Clean!

Reduce waste from disposable sterilization pouches with our reusable STERecycle pouches! You can use each pouch up to 200 times, preventing waste in the environment and your budget!

A Great Marketing Solution

2009-03-06T10:50:00.003-05:00

Are you looking for a cost efficient and effective way to market your business? DentaPak is a like a business card with one huge improvement. It displays your office's information on the outside, and contains 12 yards of premium dental floss on the inside! Most business cards are tucked into a wallet or thrown away, never to be seen by prospective clients. DentaPak is so useful and unique, it is guaranteed to be seen time after time. The flexible, yet tear proof and waterproof DentaPak comes with free personalization and very quick turnaround time! Practicon can even add your company's logo for a low, one-time set-up fee! Pass them around and watch your business grow!

Upcoming Show Dates

2009-02-19T11:59:00.003-05:00

The Practicon Tour Bus is getting cleaned out and fueled up ahead of a busy season of scheduled dental sessions and exhibitions. Will you be attending any of these major meetings? If so, please come find us in the Exhibit Hall. We'd love to see you!

CHICAGO DENTAL SOCIETY MIDWINTER MEETING
CHICAGO, IL
FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 1
BOOTH # 246

AMERICAN DENTAL EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION
PHOENIX, AZ
MARCH 16-17
BOOTH # 312

THE THOMAS P. HINMAN DENTAL MEETING
ATLANTA, GA
MARCH 19-21
BOOTH # 1326

CALIFORNIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION
ANAHEIM, CA
MAY 15-17
BOOTH # 764

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
HONOLULU, HI
MAY 22-24
BOOTH # TBA

An important message can positively affect your recare system.

2009-02-13T15:46:00.003-05:00

An effective Recare System for most dental practices targets 75% to 80% of established patients returning regularly for hygiene appointments. The Recare System can be the golden link that keeps patients in the practice, educates them about oral health to help them maintain a healthy, attractive mouth, and allows the dentist to monitor potential problems, disease, opportunities for cosmetic improvements and so on.

Many factors affect the effectiveness of your Recare System, and often overlooked, is the message on the Recare reminder sent to patients, whether by e-mail, telephone, card or letter. Consider wording similar to this: “We look forward to seeing you at your regularly scheduled Recare appointment. At this time we will thoroughly clean your teeth, examine all hard and soft tissue for dental disease, discuss with you any restorative treatment or cosmetic enhancements for a more beautiful smile, and review oral hygiene techniques for use at home to help you maintain your healthy mouth. With regularly scheduled care, we can help you and your family become part of the cavity-free generation.”

This type of message emphasizes much more than just the fact that it is time for the patient’s hygiene exam, a fact that is a sort of “ho-hum” for many people. Try a more dynamic message to help boost your Recare System into the 75% to 80% effectiveness range.

It's Dental Health Month!

2009-02-03T11:32:00.017-05:00

Once again, Dental Health Month is upon us! Time to educate our youth about the importance of good oral hygiene!
Practicon has the teaching aids and giveaway items that will make your dental health demonstrations a success:

The Gross, Disgusting, and Totally Cool Mouth Book is an excellent way to show what can result from a lack of dental care.
Hygiene demonstration models are an effective way to show good brushing and flossing techniques.
Leave your students and patients excited with a goodie-bag of toothbrushes , floss, and other items to get them on their way to a lifetime of great oral health!

Visit Practicon.com for these and more items to help simplify your Dental Health Month shopping!

OFFICE APPEARANCE---A KEY TO RETAINING PATIENTS

2009-01-14T15:59:00.001-05:00

After you read this, close your eyes. Take a mental stroll through your office. Be critical. How does it appear to patients, particularly first timers? Remember that an appealing, up-to-date office says to patients, “This doctor and staff care about their office, its appearance and cleanliness. They will have the same type of care for me.” Patients often equate an attractive, impeccably clean office with excellent dental care. And, particularly, in today’s tight economy, patients will stay and accept treatment only from a practice they consider excellent.

If you are not entirely pleased by your office appearance, recruit staff members in the evaluation process. Set time aside to let business staff members walk through the clinical area, making a list of opportunities for improvements. Ask clinical staff to do the same for the business and reception areas. Don’t forget the grounds and parking area. Looking critically with “fresh eyes”, staff members can spot problems in the area in which they do NOT work.

Follow up. Act on staff suggestions and your own critique as well. Organization and tidiness of your office are free except for staff time involved. If costly projects are necessary, such as new carpet, re-painting or purchasing new reception room furniture or new clinical equipment, set a budget and prioritize the order in which improvements will be made.

Product Spotlight: OptraGate

2009-01-07T08:33:00.010-05:00

At Practicon, we pride ourselves in bringing new, exciting, and innovative products to the consumer. One of the latest products we've introduced is the OptraGate by Ivoclar Vivadent. This product won the 2005 Medical Design Excellence Award and was rated 5 pluses by The Dental Advisor! The OptraGate offers better access to all areas of the mouth and better protection and comfort for the patient than other lip and cheek retractors. Plus, it's easy to remove and insert quickly. Go to Practicon.com to see the OptraGate and check out some of the other exciting products in the Optra line.

Dental Themed Gifts for the Holidays!

2008-12-08T16:55:00.000-05:00

The Holiday Season is upon us and Practicon has exciting gifts for your favorite dentist, hygienist, dental student, and more! We've made it easy to find the perfect gift for your loved ones! From ornaments and statues to garments and quilts, we've found unique gifts that will show you care! Shop the gift section of Practicon.com to find dental themed items that your friends and loved ones will cherish. Express shipping is available, but you'll want to place your order as soon as possible to ensure delivery by December 24th!

Giving Thanks

2008-11-25T13:29:00.014-05:00

Even when things aren't going exactly how we'd like, we still have plenty of reasons to be thankful. The freedoms and lifestyles we enjoy - and often take for granted - far surpass anything the rest of the world has ever known. As we gather this week with our families and our friends, for feasting and for fellowship, we can take a moment to look past the gloomy headlines and reflect instead on our many blessings.

It's a joy for me to work in a field as noble and commendable as the profession of Dentistry. And today, it was an even bigger joy, an even "tastier" joy, as Practicon sponsored the annual Thanksgiving feast for employees! We all chipped in with a variety of casseroles, gravies, veggies, and desserts - and thanks to Scott for supplying and frying (yes, frying) the Thanksgiving turkey!

This Thanksgiving, we at Practicon express our sincere thanks to each of you. For 26 years, our focus has remained on improving healthcare and helping you be successful, and we know this is only possible through your patronage and loyalty. Best wishes, and Happy Thanksgiving!

99.87% ERROR FREE!

2008-11-04T12:45:00.004-05:00

Practicon strives to ship each and every order complete, accurate, and as quickly as possible! Most orders leave our warehouse within one working day! This year, Practicon has managed to remain error free on 99.87% of all orders shipped!

With the cost of gas and energy on the rise, it’s important that consumers know they will receive their items in a timely, efficient manner. We make that one of our highest priorities at Practicon and we think our near perfect accuracy rate shows it!

Want a Simple Way to Receive Special Offers and Information?

2008-10-13T11:00:00.000-04:00

Send us your e-mail address! Practicon frequently offers specials that are only available through e-mail! Plus, we are able to keep you up to date on new products, upcoming sales, order status, and other useful information!

To start receiving our specials and updates, simply click here and supply your basic information. If you have any questions about receiving specials by e-mail, you may send a message directly to me. Your feedback and questions are always welcome! Don't miss out on this simple way to save money and stay informed!

ADA Update

2008-10-04T22:07:00.005-04:00

Hey everybody, just a couple more weeks before the 2008 ADA is underway at the Gonzales Center in San Antonio!

And above all the sights, sounds, and tastes of this unique Texan town, there's one attraction you won't want to miss: Practicon Booth #689

Stop by and say hello to Jennifer, Sharon, and me any day during show hours. We'll have one of our largest assortments ever of innovative new products and long-time Practicon best sellers. All show orders receive a special discount and a surprise gift-with-purchase. And as always, plenty of product samples will be available.

Plus, anyone who drops by and says "George, I love your blog!" gets a pair of Laschal utility scissors, compliments of Practicon. See you soon!

From Consultation to Innovation: Practicon Through the Years

2008-09-24T08:50:00.002-04:00

Practicon has gone through a lot of changes in its 26-year history. What began as a venture into consultation and education has blossomed into a thriving and ever expanding dental supply company. With strong leadership and a desire to always be on the side of innovation, Practicon has seen exponential growth over the last two and a half decades.

The company was founded by Ann Page Griffin and Dr. Jasper L. Lewis. Ann worked with Dr. Lewis's pediatric dental practice as their Dental Health Educator and later became Marketing Coordinator and Practice Administrator. She embarked upon office tours and taught preventative dentistry to school classrooms. As demand for Ann's educational, management, and marketing services heightened, the need to expand beyond the resources of the practice arose. Thus, on September 13, 1982 Practicon, Inc. was formed.

1985 was a big year for Practicon, with its first mail order catalog! The Ideal was published that year in August and offered a whopping 50 dental products (our latest catalog contains over 2,300)! Also in that year, Practicon finally had a place to call home. The 950 square foot finished attic space above Dr. Lewis's office served as headquarters to the company's small work force.

As business continued to grow, a larger shipping facility was needed. Shipping moved to a 2,500 square foot off-site warehouse in 1988. In 1992, Practicon moved to a 9,500 square foot building and by 1993 had grown to employ 30 associates. The company also received its first product patent for the Optishield. The next 2 years saw tremendous growth as sales grew by 30%! The catalog evolved from the tabloid format to a more traditional format.

Finally, in 1997 Practicon moved to its current location. It was then a 20,000 square foot building, but has since expanded by another 12,000 feet! To support it's continued growth, the company has continued to add new positions and now employs over 50 associates! By continually adding new and innovative products (such as the Optra-Gate, Optra Dam, Denta Pak, and Angle-Ease) and offering superb customer service, Practicon has continued to grow, in spite of widespread economic hardships. With its top-notch blend of marketing, merchandising, and old-fashioned customer service, Practicon looks forward to continued growth for many years to come.

Keep your practice website up-to-date and attractive…

2008-09-16T09:29:00.004-04:00

and if your office does not have a website, invest in having one developed as soon as possible. More potential patients than ever before are searching the web for a dental practice in which they can receive quality treatment plus above-the-norm personal care that lead to a long term trusting relationship. In other words the new patient is seeking a cutting edge practice with a variety of the latest and best treatment options available, and he/she is likely to look for that information on an attractive website.

Your website may include biographical sketches about the dentist and staff members, details about the practice such as appointment hours, location, service mix including any specific treatment procedures offered, and educational information that lets new patients know your practice is committed to helping them achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Many other features can be part of your website, depending on the variety of options available from your website developer.

Once the website is active, be sure to include your web address on all practice paperwork, including business cards used by the dentist and staff. Mention it in your telephone on-hold messages. List it in the telephone yellow pages or any other advertisements published for the practice. Make certain your website is one to be proud of and then let patients and potential patients know how to find your practice via the web.

An effective marketing technique:

2008-09-16T08:56:00.004-04:00

Want a free, yet simple, way to gain new patients through current patients? How? In two words, “Simply ask.” Asking a current patient to refer family and friends should be done regularly by a staff member who has interacted with the patient during that appointment or by the dentist before the patient leaves the treatment room. Seeing a busy office, many current satisfied patients assume the practice has all the patients it can handle, failing to realize that the practice does, in fact, enthusiastically welcome new patients.

An example of effective phrasing might be, “Mrs. Lindell, Dr. Smith is seeing new patients. If you know family or friends who want a great dental office with the nicest patients and best dental care available, please ask them to call us.”

During the morning huddle review of that day’s schedule, the staff and doctor may want to decide who issues the reminder to which patient. Alternatively, the request may consistently be offered by a business staff member during check out, by the hygienist, the dental assistant or the dentist.

ADA Annual Session 2008

2008-09-12T15:44:00.005-04:00

Anybody with a taste for taquitos, tamales, and tequila will love the setting for this year's ADA!

Who's ready for San Antonio? The 149th American Dental Association Annual Session and Exhibition is only one month away, but if you haven't yet registered to attend, it's still not too late. Everything kicks off Thursday October 16, including the World Marketplace Exhibition that runs Thursday through Saturday. Stop by and see Practicon - we're at Booth #689!

Visit the ADA website for more info...

We're already taking a look at some of our newest and most popular items to bring to the show. Anything special you'd like to see? Let us know! If you plan on coming to the ADA and want to see a particular Practicon product, just send me an email. I'll see what I can do!

In the meantime, start packing for breezy strolls down River Walk, live local music at Main Plaza, and historical diversions through the Spanish Missions. All during the ADA Annual Session 2008!

Cavex Alginate Evaluation Kits - Only $4.99!

2008-09-08T10:04:00.016-04:00

Hi everyone! Cavex brand alginate is one of our most popular and best selling products. Those of you who are familiar with Cavex products already know of their superior quality. Those who are new to the brand will want to take advantage of this terrific offer!

We are now offering Evaluation Kits for the popular Cavex product line. Available in ColorChange, Impressional, or CA37 formulation configurations, each kit includes a 1.1 lb. bag of Cavex alginate, a trial pack of GreenClean Alginate Remover, a scoop, a beaker and additional product information. Cavex alginate offers excellent detail reproduction and tear-resistant elasticity. In fact, Cavex ColorChange received a 5+ rating from The Dental Advisor and has been named a Top 100 Product for 2008 by Dentistry Today. Evaluation kits are available to new customers (limit one per customer) for only $4.99, which includes shipping and handling. To request an evaluation kit, please call 1-800-959-9505, mention code CAVEX08, and specify the type of Cavex you wish to try. You'll want to act quickly, because this offer ends October 31, 2008 and supplies are limited. For more information on each item, visit http://practicon.com/category.aspx?cid=6002

This offer really is a fantastic value. I hope you'll agree that Cavex alginate is a superior product and decide to use it in your office! If you have questions or comments, please leave me some feedback! Thanks for taking the time to read The Practicon Insider.

What type of brush should be used for infants, toddlers, and older children?

2008-09-02T10:54:00.011-04:00

Often, customers are unsure what size or type of brush to buy for children of varying ages. I am frequently asked what type of brush should be used for infants, toddlers, and older children.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, oral health care should start at birth. Gently wipe the baby’s gums with a soft, wet cloth after each feeding. Check out our Tenders. This is a product specifically designed for infants! Once teeth appear, a soft bristled, child brush should be used twice a day. The Angel Brush and the Infant-Toddler Safety Brush are excellent products you can use to clean brand new teeth.

When a child is 2-3 years old, dentists recommend switching to a child toothbrush (according to Medicinenet.com). Use a soft bristled brush with a head that is small enough to maneuver inside the child’s mouth. Switch to an adult sized brush when the jawbone extends and the mouth is large enough to facilitate a larger sized brush (usually by age 12). Some people with smaller mouths can use a child-sized brush for life!

Premier Rewards Program

2008-08-25T09:39:00.008-04:00

Since 2000, Premier Rewards members have saved over $5,000,000! To all who have participated in Practicon's Premier Rewards Program, thank you and congratulations! Membership saves you 10% on every order! Members also earn points with every order that can earn you great extras!

For those that are unfamiliar with Premier Rewards, details can be found here. As a member of the Premier Rewards team, customers constantly remind me of how much they love our products and how great their savings are! I would love to hear your feedback as well.

Dental Educator's HQ

2008-08-21T10:07:00.004-04:00

Everyone knows Practicon features thousands of distinctive products for dentistry that are useful, innovative, or just plain fun! But did you know Practicon is also the #1 source for dental health education and training aids? Visit http://www.practicon.com/ and browse through a huge selection of products for patient consultation and demonstration, as well as a ton of other ideas to promote oral health.

Educators, here's something special for you: Practicon is the exclusive distributor of Frasaco brand typodonts and simulators. Frasaco is known throughout the world as the leader in dental simulation. Visit our website, http://www.frasacousa.com/ to learn more!

33 and 31 Gauge X-Short Dental Needles

2008-08-18T15:58:00.007-04:00

These X-Short needles are great for pediatric dentistry - they're a Practicon exclusive! Here are the specs:

33 Gauge X-Short (14mm) Dental Needles from TSK are the world’s finest gauge dental needles. With a diameter of only 0.26mm, the needles reduce cutting area by 58% compared to 27G needles—and 25% compared to 30G. The needles have a smaller, ultra-sharp cutting blade, which drastically reduces pinch and pain “memory” with all infiltration and PDL injections. They fit all standard dental syringes and feature a yellow plastic hub with bevel indicator mark.

New 31G X-Short (12mm) Dental Needles with pink hubs are now also available. With a diameter of only 0.28mm, the needles reduce cutting area by 51% compared to 27G needles.

Anyone who's tried these, let me know what you think of them - I'd love to hear your feedback!

Our first blog!

2008-07-28T15:51:00.005-04:00

Welcome to the Practicon blog - an inside look at the dental supply company that brings you innovative and new products! Come back and see info on our new products, tips on Practice Management from Ann Page Griffin, and other news from our company. Feel free to post your comments on some of the favorite products you have found at Practicon!