For indications where PFMs once dominated the industry, clinicians are now delivering BruxZir^® Solid Zirconia at an astounding rate. This monolithic zirconia material and its more recent anterior formulation have been praised by trusted research centers and practitioners alike. However, there still remain a number of indications where clinicians have had to rely on traditional PFMs. In 2015, the Glidewell Laboratories research and development team responsible for BruxZir Solid Zirconia released a new material in Obsidian^® lithium silicate ceramic, which sets a new benchmark for strength and esthetics in bilayer restorations. With a variety of indications, the door is wide open for clinicians to prescribe based on the needs of their patients.

Beyond embracing new and improved dental materials, a growing number of dentists have revolutionized their practices by implementing a slew of digital technologies. In this issue’s One-on-One interview, I talked to Dr. Dean Saiki, a San Diego dentist who believes that many digital tools are a must for the private practice to stay relevant in the face of corporate dentistry. He details which components are the most beneficial and necessary, and how they help him provide a higher quality of restorative care.

This issue also features a number of articles that cover other aspects of dentistry, from preventive care to office management. Dr. Michael Miller and Zachary Smith of the University of Texas School of Dentistry present the results of their comparative study on lab-fabricated mouthguards, showing which thicknesses offer the best level of protection. A case report by Dr. John Farah, founder of The Dental Advisor, uses both BruxZir and BruxZir Anterior to provide functional and esthetic full-mouth treatment. And returning with his popular column, Gary Pritchard, J.D., legal counsel for Glidewell Laboratories, offers insight on how a clinician can avoid potential lawsuits related to employees within his or her practice.

The vision of Glidewell Laboratories is to form lasting partnerships with dentists, so that they will provide patients with excellent care using affordable high-value products. We are able to reach patients through the hands of discerning and conscientious practitioners, and the patients ultimately can appreciate when clinicians choose to utilize the innovative solutions created by our research and development team. It’s our hope that these materials along with the knowledge provided in Chairside^® magazine enable you to practice your best level of dentistry.