What If Saliva Were Red?

By: Dr. David Rice

What If Saliva Were Red? Do you remember that video from school?

Depending on when you graduated, it will likely hit you differently. I was a 90’s grad so the whole Hepatitis, HIV was top of mind and made it stick with me.

I’m guessing if you graduated in the last decade, your thoughts went straight to Covid.

Regardless of what comes to mind and why, I think we can all agree none of us wants to be covered in aerosol and all that comes with it. And in a scenario where you don’t mind, ask your patients. I’m guessing they do. 

Shield Aerosol in Dentistry with Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel

Dentistry has come up with a myriad of ways to shield us or contain aerosol.

From masks, eyewear, shields, gowns, gloves, high-speed evacuators to various isolation devices.

Now, there is a new kid on the block in the hygiene world from Ivoclar, Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel

Finally! Someone addressed the cause of the problem rather than trying to protect us from the effects. And they say a picture’s worth a thousand words so before I continue, have a look.

Image of dentist using  Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel on a patient and the difference with not using it

What do you see?

  • Better protection
  • Better visibility
  • More efficient care

Think it’s photoshopped?

I understand. It is indeed that dramatic of an improvement. I’ve seen it live and being used on patients.

But don’t trust my word on it. Hit the next trade show or better yet, get with your Ivoclar rep and they’ll show you too.

My Experience Using the Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel

For me, protecting my team is my number one priority. It’s honestly what attracts me to this simple tech.

A gel that gets added to our water and transforms the massive aerosol into a minor dribble. Beyond that benefit, our hygiene team is also loving the better visibility.

As a dentist, I know if I can’t see it, I can’t treat it. I’m glad I can help them with that.

For those of you who know me, you know where I’m going next. Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel transforms the hygiene patient experience.

My hygienists never wanted to torture me before, well maybe they did a little, but I’ll tell you this, as a patient, I’m much happier to not have a face full of aerosol.

Friends, if you don’t think that bothers many of your patients, take the time to ask them. You’ll be shocked!

Last but certainly not least, all of the above add up to our hygiene team’s ability to be more efficient, and increased efficiency leads to increased profitability.

How I Assessed this New Product

Whenever I assess a product or tech, I ask myself 3 questions.

  1. Will it improve patient care?
  2. Will my team happily adopt it?
  3. Will it improve our bottom line?

This is an easy three positive checks to my litmus test. Check it out and hit me back. I’d love to hear how it’s helping you too!

Till Next Time, Together We Rise!

David

David Rice

David Rice

Founder of the nation’s largest student and new-dentist community, igniteDDS, David R. Rice, DDS, travels the world speaking, writing, and connecting today’s top young dentists with tomorrow’s most successful dental practices. He is the editorial director of DentistryIQ and leads a team-centered restorative and implant practice in East Amherst, New York. With 27 years of practice in the books, Dr. Rice is trained at the Pankey Institute, the Dawson Academy, Spear Education, and most prolifically at the school of hard knocks.