Blog

SML Product Catalog Prescription Forms | Shipping LabelsWe specialize in the design and fabrication of orthodontic and orthopedic appliances -- prominent among them a full range of snoring, OSA and pediatric appliances; TMJ splints; fixed, removable and functional appliances. In addition, SML offers a full array of digital /diagnostic services, educational solutions and an extensive inventory of pediatric and orthodontic products and supplies.  

SML® Your Practice-Building Partnerwww.SMLglobal.com 1-800-423-3270

These days, your patients don’t have to walk around with a mouth full of metal if they want straight teeth. Clear orthodontic tray systems, are a great option for patients who would otherwise feel self-conscious about wearing braces --especially adults who work in professional environments.

However, not every patient is a good candidate for clear orthodontic trays. If you have a patient who is wants an alternative esthetic option, consider offering ceramic braces with tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Though ceramic brackets aren’t as subtle as clear removable trays, they are significantly less noticeable than typical metal brackets.

You’ll need to evaluate each patient’s aptitude for correctly caring for the more delicate ceramic brackets, but…

Dear SML Clients,  As the discussion intensifies surrounding the appropriate time to resume “business as usual,” it is clear to us at SML that business will not be returning to anything close to “usual,” anytime soon.  I say this as both the President of SML – Space Maintainers Laboratories, and as a practicing dentist, just like you. We are all concerned with the health and safety of our employees and staff, yet we also understand the important work we do for our patients and our communities.So, how do we do this? How do we begin the steps to reaching some semblance or normalcy?With thoughtful preparation, and careful implementation.At my dental office, we are doing the following:…

For clarity’s sake, let’s begin by acknowledging that “screening” is not the same as a “diagnosis.” Screening is the first step in the airway health management process and is targeted at assessing the need for a sleep test – a polysomnogram.

That being said, the only way to achieve an accurate, viable airway diagnosis is to order a sleep test.

Previously only performed in a hospital setting, sleep tests were extremely comprehensive (and are still considered one of the most comprehensive physical tests available today). They were also frequently considered by participants to be counter-conducive to actual sleep. Strange bed, ever present technicians, wires and terminals from head to toe — and a hospital sleep…