Defining what you really want Carol Murphy, Executive Editor

Friends and associates often ask my advice before buying or upgrading their computer. I usually begin by asking, "What do you want to do with the computer?" Baffled, they reply, "What do you mean?" If the primary purpose for the computer is to play high action, memory intensive games, then their selection must focus on a high-speed processor, an excellent graphics card and tons of memory. But, if they simply want to send an occasional email or control their finances with Excel, then the equipment requirements are much less demanding and less expensive.

The same selection process is necessary when considering equipment and software for your practice. The most effective selection and usage of high technology requires first a vision of exactly what you want from the equipment and how it will enable you to improve your daily work.

Speaking of high technology, this month Biolase, a world leader in the production of both hard and soft tissue lasers, is in our corporate spotlight. The company has experienced phenomenal growth and just recently received the first clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for laser cutting, shaving, contouring and resection of oral osseous tissues (bone). We asked dentists who have been using the Waterlase to tell you how they have incorporated the equipment into their practices and the impact laser technology has made on the patients and their profitability!

Have you visited the DentalTown website recently? We now have well over 7,000 dental professionals registered. Our latest addition to the website is the inclusion of polling software. I’m sure you’re probably just as interested as I am in finding out what others think about topics of interest to dentistry. The results of our first poll are featured on page 46 and focus on patient financing options.

Please email or write us to share your ideas on future polling questions and topics of interest to you. We really depend on your feedback to make DentalTown the most interactive community in dentistry.

Don’t forget to visit the Laser Dentistry Forum on the DentalTown website (www.dentaltown.com) to read recommendations on selecting and implementing laser dentistry into their practice. You won’t find a more honest exchange of information.