Listerine dodges another bullet; Yelp not so lucky

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

Remember those old TV commercials for Listerine mouthwash that declared, "It's clinically proven: A quick, easy rinse with Listerine Antiseptic twice a day is actually as effective as floss"?

Since 2005, the ads -- which are no longer used -- have prompted a series of lawsuits against the original manufacturer, all contending that the language in them posed a public health risk and could undermine the message of dental professionals. Click here to read what a California judge had to say about the most recent litigation, which was -- like all the rest -- dismissed.

In other legal news, the consumer review Web site Yelp.com has come under fire again -- this time in the form of two class-action lawsuits that allege the company extorts businesses by posting more favorable reviews if they buy advertising. Has your practice been a victim too? Read more.

Meanwhile, a recent ADA survey found that dentists' income fell 5% in 2009. While this isn't a huge surprise given the recession, some grounds for optimism are buried in the survey's findings. Read more.

And over on the Second Opinion page, Dr. Allan Farman contends that, when it comes to electronic sharing of diagnostic photographs and radiographs across state lines, we need a simple, universal standard.

Finally, don't forget: If you've got a question about dental technology and how the latest high-tech products might improve your practice, you can always Ask Marty.