Merck awaits osteonecrosis verdict; a better approach to occlusal analysis?

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

The trial involving a woman who claims the oral bisphosphonate Fosamax caused her to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw concluded last week, and depending on the jury's verdict, legal experts say this case could pave the way for numerous out-of-court settlements in the 900 related lawsuits pending against Merck, the manufacturer of Fosamax. Read more.

Also making headlines these days is the drug propofol, which not only is being blamed for the death of pop icon Michael Jackson but appears to be the drug of choice for many healthcare professionals struggling with addiction, according to recent news reports. Dentists, however, seem not to fit the same mold. Read more.

In clinical news, dental practitioners have long relied on articulating paper to determine occlusal contact. But some occlusion experts believe there is a better approach, especially when it comes to analyzing bite force and timing. Read more.

And researchers in Australia and Taiwan have developed a new way to noninvasively analyze tooth enamel by measuring how the surface of a tooth responds to laser-generated acoustic waves. How long before it becomes a clinical tool? Read more.

Finally, over on the Second Opinion page, Dr. Sheri Doniger discusses the pros and cons of introducing a new team member to your practice, while marketing expert Richard Geller shares his secret to truly successful advertising.