Due to several personal and professional dental-related trips over the last month, I took a short hiatus from writing.  I’m indulging myself a little with this return post to write about my experiences on the last of these trips – attending Sirona’s monumental CEREC 27 and a Half event.  So, please excuse the cheesy, play on words title.  This event proved to be an amazing experience for me technologically, professionally, and personally.

First, the technology.  Sirona launched  CEREC Omnicam at the event last week.  Words cannot do it justice, so I won’t attempt an explanation.  It is simply a game changer in digital impressions and CAD/CAM.  Just check it out.

From a professional perspective it was invigorating to re-connect with former business associates from some great dental companies.  Integrated Media Solutions, Patterson Dental, Ivoclar, Lanmark360, DentalTown, 1-800-Dentist, and DentalCompare were all represented, just to name a few.  It was also refreshing to engage with many of the CEREC owners whom I have had the privilege to get to know over the years.  These dentists are so forward thinking and generally fun to be around.  They display a sense of community within their profession that is really inspiring.

And personally I felt an odd sense of pride.  Let me explain.  I spent a number of years as an employee in the marketing team of Sirona’s CAD/CAM division.  I felt a strange sense of pride in my own history and involvement with the product.  I felt proud of the developers who worked so hard to bring this latest generation to market.  I felt proud of the marketing team who put on this excellent event.  They really did an outstanding job.

So, my ultimate impression of the CEREC 27 and a Half event is a sense of thankfulness.  I’m thankful that I was able to experience it and be one of the first to witness such an innovation in dental technology.  I’m thankful to be involved in such a wonderful profession where often the lines blur between status of customer, business associate, and friend.  And finally, I’m thankful that I had a small part in the history of a product which brings such benefits to dentists, dental practices, and patients.