Ultradent announces change at top of leadership

There is a big change at the highest level of Ultradent Products, but a familiar name is now leading the company into the era after COVID-19's initial impact on the dental industry.

Dan Fischer, DDS, has stepped down as Ultradent's CEO, effective immediately. Dirk Jeffs, who has served as Ultradent's president since April 2016, has taken over Fischer's duties and is now the company's president and CEO.

Dirk Jeffs.

Dr. Fischer will remain with the company as an adviser and hold the title of CEO emeritus.

Jeffs joined Ultradent in 1996 as the company's international sales manager. He then progressed to the position of senior vice president of sales and marketing, where he served until being named president.

In an exclusive talk with DrBicuspid.com, Jeffs paid tribute to Dr. Fischer, the founder of Ultradent, for preparing him for his new role.

"In my role as president, the last five years has been an amazing period for me to observe and learn," Jeffs said. "Dr. Fischer has made it happen very naturally. No one move has been dramatic. It's been very step by step, and I appreciate that from Dr. Fischer."

In our chat, Jeffs paid tribute to Dr. Fischer's role in industry-changing moments, crediting him with revolutionizing tissue management, putting professional tooth whitening on the map, and pioneering syringe delivery of dental materials. He also said that Dr. Fischer's vision for the company will continue under his leadership.

"His philosophy focused on minimally invasive dentistry and preserving natural tooth structure will continue to improve our product offerings going forward," Jeffs said. "Those fundamental things will continue. I don't see us making radical changes. Our vision, mission, and core values are going to remain the same."

In closing, Jeffs credited Ultradent's team for being one of the strengths of the company during the current crisis.

"I feel fortunate to be surrounded by hundreds of enthusiastic, talented, and caring people," he said. "Ultradent's successes are thanks to their diligent efforts, and I'm lucky to call them my colleagues and friends."