Welcome to The BRIDGE, an online network from LMT dedicated exclusively for members of the Dental Laboratory community.
LMT sponsors the three largest dental laboratory trade shows in North America. There's no better venue in the dental laboratory community for one-on-one conversation, hands-on product demonstrations, education and effective comparison shopping.
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Despite the fact that many lab owners have been feeling the effects of the economy in many areas of their businesses, the majority of respondents to LMT's latest survey say the implant department isn't one of them.
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In the latest installment of Barry D. The Lab Guy, Laboratory Owner Mike Hill explains his strategies for protecting the bottom line.
After employees helped the business bounce back from a challenging 2010, Joseph Traboulsi, Owner of Creative Dental Images in Dedham, MA, treated them and their families to a seven-day cruise to Bermuda.
Live Surgeries. Magicians on stilts. Space-age technology. And dazzling developments in digital dentistry. This must be the IDS.
Carlos Codina
Lionel Purushothaman, DDS
Brian Binnie
Feng Chen
Leslie Yamamoto
Marcia Siggins Jonas
Chris Timoteo
M. Ali Tabatabaei, CDT/TE
Johnson Hu
Llandro Abadilla, CDT
Evelyn R Valle
Chong Hyun Kim
George Presley
Rick Elkins
Micah Tago
Robert Kreyer, CDT
Hiroaki Tada, RDT
Peter Yu, CDT
Mona Zahra, CDT
Wilma Peterson, CDT
Jon Berry, CDT
Dana Chekan
Rick L Kline, DDS
John Mcmillan

Connectivity — the buzz word of this new Century — has LMT's full attention. It's been the driver of our brand from Day One. Now, with the introduction of our interactive online community network, LMT created a virtual LAB DAY environment 24/7. "The BRIDGE" does what a printed piece cannot do: create immediate, interactive experiences!
Sun Dental Labs
3Shape, Inc.
American Prosthodontic Society
Aspen Dental
South Carolina Dental Laboratory Association
Whip Mix Corp.
DENTSPLY Prosthetics
Amann Girrbach America
Sirona Dental Systems LLC
Keating Dental Arts
Oregon State Denturist Association
Custom Automated Prosthetics (CAP)
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
Straumann USA
American Student Dental Association
Ivoclar Vivadent Inc.
Heraeus Kulzer
Arizona State Dental Lab Association
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2013 Ceramco® Course: The Next Generation Provisional System - Radica™
DENTSPLY Prosthetics · May 1, 2013 to May 31, 2014 · Technical Education Center
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Don't Channel Steve Jobs
Judy Fishman · The Way I See It · May 2013
Like most of you, I did not have any kind of formal management training. Instead, my route to figuring out how to do it right was fraught with twists and turns, leaving my early-career staff members confused...See more and unhappy. At one point back then, I tried mimicking my boss since everyone responded quickly to his every request. But as soon as I tried talking his talk, he made a beeline to my office to tell me to knock it off. "You have to be you," he said. "You can't 'do' me and expect people to respond well to it; it's not genuine." It wasn't the magic bullet but it sunk in and helped me recognize how lost I was at understanding my role as a manager. In time, I began to realize I didn't need to have all the answers. It was more important to know what questions to ask, examine a problem from every direction and seek the counsel of my entire team. Last month, JCPenney ousted CEO Ron Johnson after only 17 months at the helm. This story was all over the news because Johnson, with an MBA from Harvard and success at Target stores, also spearheaded the wildly successful creation of Apple retail stores. He implemented Apple's Genius Bar, where customers go to get their technical issues resolved. In other words, he's a pretty competent guy. He was recruited to JCPenney to breathe new life into the ailing retailer. Instead, under his leadership, the chain saw an additional 25% drop in revenue. Those who have been analyzing why he so broadly failed at his post say, mostly, he failed to listen. Some say he came into the position with the pomp of someone who had all the answers: he told skeptics, in effect, that there was room only for "believers." He didn't ask for, or listen to, input. Rather than test his ideas, he just rolled them out. He got rid of coupons and discounts—a main attraction for JCPenney customers. Ignoring a study of customer preferences that suggested otherwise, he was determined to create a "Bloomingdale's for Middle America." He made a deal with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia that resulted in a costly lawsuit from Macy's. In trying to channel his late, great boss—Steve Jobs—this formerly very successful manager created a mess. Part of Jobs' genius was that —without asking—he instinctively knew what customers would want. But Johnson is no Steve Jobs. With our laboratory landscape shifting before our eyes, there's definitely a strain on the old foundation. Figuring out "next steps" is something every one of us is doing. In recent months, we've spoken to some lab owners who said the changes became overwhelming—they "were close to retirement anyway"—and they've left the industry. But we've also added new laboratories to our database. They feel like kids in a candy shop: there is so much opportunity and so many business-model options to choose. For most people, managing with our gut isn't sufficient. A gut sense needs to be carefully integrated with thorough research, knowledge and market awareness. Before any option can be comfortably selected, it's important to know if your customer base wants what you want to offer. For example, milling machine capacity is high; will dentist demand keep pace? You also need to be sure the technicians you work with are as eager as you are to incorporate new technologies. Or, perhaps they are eager and you are not. Moving forward with conviction could be futile if everyone affected by your decisions isn't on the same page. We all already know these things, but when you read about the struggles of a 111-year-old, beloved retail chain taking such a hit due to a management fiasco from a seasoned pro, it's worth taking a step back to do some rechecks of your own.
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Implants Still Going Strong
Kim Molinaro · LMT Surveys · May 2013
Despite the fact that many lab owners have been feeling the effects of the economy in many areas of their businesses, the majority of respondents to LMT's latest survey say the implant department isn't one of them.
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Digital Technology, Big Names Draw Over 900 Attendees to LMT's LAB DAY East
LMT Communications, Inc. · LAB DAY · May 2013
> LMT's LAB DAY EAST--the largest dental laboratory trade show on the East Coast--was the place to be to research digital technology. This year, of the 93 exhibitors, over 40 companies offered the latest...See more scanners, milling and rapid prototyping machines, wax printers, software, materials and services, allowing attendees to see products up close and personal and comparison shop. "We're looking to invest in a scanner and milling system--we'll be 'newbies'. Since I own a one-person lab and want to expand, I've been doing a lot of reading and research on new systems but it's key to be able to come to LAB DAY East and see them in person," said David Soto, Accurate Dental, Middletown, NY. The show--held April 6 at the Grand Hyatt in the heart of Manhattan--also attracted seasoned digital labs that are looking to expand their existing digital portfolio. "Over the past two years, we've switched our clients over to full contour zirconia and now it's 95% of our business," said Ron Mottola, RDT, J&B Dental Studio, Danvers, MA. "We have the Origin machine now and are looking to add another scanner and mill." Another draw of the show: well-known technicians like Peter Pizzi, MDT; Joshua Polansky, MDT; and Richard Pavlak, MDT. All three were on hand at the Harvest table offering hands-on demonstrations, creating a stir on the exhibit hall floor with attendees crowding around the area for a better look. "I'm here to see my mentor, Peter Pizzi," said Heather Pear, CDT, a ceramist at AR Dental Lab in Toms River, NJ. "I try to connect with him whenever I can. I love coming to LAB DAY East because all of my peers here are always so enthusiastic the atmosphere is energizing." Pear and the 900-plus attendees also had the chance to learn from 27 other educators--including Luke Khang; Bill Mrazek; and Alek Aronin, RDT--at the show's 36 continuing education courses, on topics ranging from dentures and implants to esthetics and full contour zirconia. Known for its smaller, more personal feel, LAB DAY East also provided attendees with a prime networking opportunity--they reunited with old friends and shared tips and ideas on everything from digital technology to marketing to the future of the industry. "It's great coming to LAB DAY East because all of the lab owners and technicians are from this region, so it's the perfect place to reconnect with people who work right around here," said Jim Redden, Lab Manager at Watchtower in Brooklyn, NY. "I love the local networking part of the show." Join us for LAB DAY East in 2014. The show will be held April 5, once again at the conveniently located Grand Hyatt, adjacent to Grand Central Station. ###LAB DAY East® by the numbers: - Over 900 laboratory owners, managers and technicians from the tri-state area and from as far away as Texas, Virginia and California. - Over 300 manufacturer and supplier representatives from 93 companies. - 33 educators at 36 continuing education courses.
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DK Mungyo Announces New Die Stones
LMT Communications, Inc. · LAB DAY · May 2013
DK Mungyo's new Die Stone Gold is a type 4 stone specially formulated for implant and CAD/CAM models. It offers a .07% setting expansion and high compressive strength (62.8MPa at one hour). Offering good...See more scanability, the stone has high fluid thixotropic properties because of its refined alpha hemihydrate gypsum and special resin. Die Stone Premium is a type 4 stone with an antibacterial feature that's patented in the U.S. Due to the longer pour time, faster setting time and resin reinforcement, the material resists chipping and breakage, and a low water-to-powder ratio (20/100) ensures high strength. For more information, call +82 (0)70 7872 7061 or email dkmungyo@gmail.com.
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Smile Line USA Launches Smile Lite Shade-Taking Tool
LMT Communications, Inc. · LAB DAY · May 2013
Chris Bradley of Smile Line USA tells Vinod Dudhat, MDT, American Dental Designs, Montgomeryville, PA, all about the new Smile Lite, a lightweight, hand-held tool that makes shade taking more reliable...See more and efficient. It's equipped with a 5,500°K calibrated LED light (equivalent to daylight) so it provides natural and neutral light whether used for chairside shade taking or in the laboratory. A special polarizing filter--easily attached to the light with magnets--eliminates light reflection and allows you to clearly discern hue, value and chroma as well as small details and characterizations. For more information, call Smile Line USA at 877-755-6868 or visit www.smilelineusa.com.
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IPS E.max Restorative System Receives AACD Celebration of Excellence Award
Ivoclar Vivadent Inc. · Industry News · May 13, 2013
Ivoclar Vivadent Recognized for Excellence, Innovation, and Leadership in Cosmetic Dentistry
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Millions Learn How to Maximize Their Smile With IPS E.max®
Ivoclar Vivadent Inc. · Industry News · May 13, 2013
Media Tour and Web Feature Gain National Consumer News Attention
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Magnusen Orthodontic Laboratory An Official VITA Certified Shade Lab
LMT Communications, Inc. · Industry News · May 03, 2013
VITA is pleased to announce that Magnusen Orthodontic Laboratory has completed comprehensive shade training in VITA shade management and communication, earning recognition as an official VITA Certified...See more Shade Laboratory. To achieve this designation, Magnusen underwent extensive VITA specific training to increase their shade management proficiency. With this new expertise, Magnusen Orthodontic Lab is able to offer expert advice and case planning support to their customers, while acting as the ultimate resource in shade management and esthetics by minimizing remakes, improving shade accuracy and producing accurate shade communication. Owner Dave Magnusen worked with Vident Inside Sales Representative, Nicole Roman. To achieve ideal outcomes, Magnusen Orthodontic Laboratory can utilize VITA's superior shade taking products and materials, including the VITA Easyshade Compact, VITA Classical Shade Guide, VITA 3D-Master Shade Guide, VITA Bleachedguide 3D-Master and VITA Linearguide 3D-Master. As part of their certification, Magnusen has the ability to provide VITA shade devices directly to their clientele. For more information, please contact Magnusen Orthodontic Laboratory at 714-751-1056.
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Amann Girrbach America Appoints New US Leadership Team
Amann Girrbach America · Industry News · April 23, 2013
> Amann Girrbach America (AGA) has recently put a new strategic US leadership team in place to oversee all North American operations including sales, marketing, distribution, service, support, training...See more and continuing education. The team's mission is to help manage and sustain the exponential growth of AGA within the US and Canadian markets while ensuring even greater customer service, responsiveness and accountability throughout the AGA customer experience. At the helm is J. Albert Garza who joined Amann Girrbach America in May 2012 as Director of Marketing. Albert recently assumed the post of Vice President, North America Marketing & Sales and has extensive dental experience in brand management and corporate operations. Other key appointments include Katherine Galvin, David Anable and Ramon Flores. Katherine Galvin, who joined Amann Girrbach America in August 2011 as a sales representative, recently assumed the role of US Marketing Manager. With more than 20 years of experience in dental sales, marketing and product management plus a connection to an extensive network of dental key opinion leaders, Katherine is well-suited to lead the marketing efforts for Amann Girrbach America. As of February 2013, new hire David Anable, whose background is dental sales, will spearhead all sales team initiatives in his position as US Regional Manager. His focus will be to integrate education, customer value and product knowledge into the overall AGA sales strategy. Ramon Flores, Manager, Technical Service and Training, started his career as a dental technician in the US Army, joining Amann Girrbach America in 2007. Ramon now leads the team of AGA product specialists through the installation, trouble-shooting, customer service, and education processes. To learn more about Amann Girrbach America, the new leadership team, the new North Carolina Corporate Headquarters and the Ceramill CAD/CAM System, visit wwww.AmannGirrbachAmerica.com or call 1-800-851-3719. Photo: [pictured left to right] J. Albert Garza, Katherine Galvin, Ramon Flores, David Anable
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Amann Girrbach Continues On Growth Path: Using Brazil's Market Potential
Amann Girrbach America · Industry News · April 15, 2013
Majority share in Brazilian trading company - Caltini becomes Amann Girrbach Brazil
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Flemming Behrend, MDT posted about Dekema Austromat® 654 Furnace
My new Dekema President is just an awesome press furnace. I highly recommend it!
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Flemming Behrend, MDT posted about Furnaces
It has been a roller coaster ride this past two weeks trying to find out if I was going to purchase a...(more)
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Bob Gitman · Company Administrator
Advertisers create emotional roller coasters for engagement
http://thebuildnetwork.com/leadership/video-advertising/ -
DENTSPLY Prosthetics · York, United States
DENTSPLY Prosthetics was honored to have received "Best Themed Booth" at the Southern States Symposium...(more)
Featured Topics
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CAD/CAM
CAD/CAM dentistry (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing in dentistry), is an area of dentistry...See more utilizing CAD/CAM technologies to produce different types of dental restorations, including crowns, crownlays, veneers, inlays and onlays, fixed bridges, dental implant restorations and orthodontic appliances.
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LAB DAY
LMT's LAB DAY trade shows have been bringing buyers and sellers together in a friendly, informal atmosphere since...See more 1985. There's no better venue in the dental laboratory community for one-on-one conversation, hands-on product demonstrations, education and effective comparison shopping.












































