DENVILLE, N.J., Aug. 1, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Lantis Laser Inc., (Pink Sheets:LLSR) (http://www.lantislaser.com) with exclusive rights to the application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging technology in the field of dentistry, points out that a recent award by the American Dental Association (ADA) to a research pioneer in the field of caries, highlights the need for Lantis' OCT Dental Imaging System(tm) for early detection of decay.
Dr. John Featherstone of University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry was recently recognized with the prestigious Ross Award for 2007 for his significant contribution for advancing dental tooth decay diagnosis and decay-inhibitory mechanisms.
The dental profession recognizes presently that a major problem exists in detecting tooth decay. Visual examination with the use of an explorer will detect 10% of decay, x-rays another 45% but at later stages only. That leaves 45% undetected decay which is what Lantis Laser addresses.
Dr. Featherstone's research was on the chemical reaction that triggers decay and reverses it. For more than three decades he has studied the process of demineralization (pre-decay) and remineralization (reversal of decay), along with the action of saliva and fluoride. Dr. Featherstone is the father of CAMBRA (Caries Management By Risk Assessment), an unaided visual examination of the appearance of the tooth surface to determine the stage of decay or absence of decay. This is taught in dental schools and used in practice today.
X-rays do not image or detect decay on the biting (occlusal) surfaces of teeth, where almost 90% of the decay develops. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a new diagnostic imaging technology, can significantly provide additional information to CAMBRA about a patient's caries risk. The visual CAMBRA examination is based on surface appearance changes only. Presently, dentists do not have accurate beneath the surface imaging capabilities to detect decay or determine demineralization or remineralization.
Using Lantis' proprietary OCT Dental Imaging System(tm), it will be the first time the dental profession will be able to detect early demineralization and follow the remineralization of tooth enamel. This will make it possible to follow, reverse decay using non-invasive means or place a smaller less invasive filling under the visual diagnostic guidance of OCT.
Lantis' OCT System represents a major advancement in dental diagnostic imaging. Using a non-invasive coherent light source without any harmful radiation, cross sectional tomographic slice images are captured of the internal microstructure of teeth and gums, up to 3 mm in depth. Using a handheld scanner in-the-mouth, the dentist captures detailed characterization of the tissue layers including the important biting (occlusal) surface. X-ray cannot image occlusal surfaces. OCT images at a resolution of up to 10 times that of x-rays. These images can be seen in real time on a computer monitor and stored for documentation or a follow up comparison exam.
Dr. Craig Gimbel, Lantis' VP Clinical Affairs quoted from an ADA news article, "Dr. Featherstone has had the same dream for 30 years -- to reverse dental caries and said he is seeing that dream realized now." In the same article Dr. Featherstone said, "We are changing the face of dentistry." With the assistance of Lantis' proprietary OCT Dental Imaging System(tm) the diagnostic clinical relevance of his research will become reality.
Lantis has exclusive rights to market OCT technology to over 100,000 dental offices in the United States and another 100,000 worldwide. Industry analysts estimate that it is a $5 Billion industry for the OCT technology developed at MIT.
To find out more about Lantis Laser (Pink Sheets:LLSR), visit our website at www.lantislaser.com
About Lantis Laser
Lantis was formed to commercialize the application of novel technologies in the dental industry. The criteria for selected products include competitive edge, exclusivity and large market potential. The Company plans to launch the OCT Dental Imaging System(tm) in the third quarter of 2008 as its first product. Lantis has exclusive rights to the application of OCT technology in the field of dentistry under its license Agreements with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and LightLab Imaging. OCT was invented in the early 1990's at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is currently being commercialized by Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. in ophthalmology and by LightLab Imaging for cardiovascular imaging.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this press release, including statements regarding the anticipated development and expansion of Lantis' business, and the intent, belief or current expectations of Lantis, its directors or its officers, are forward-looking statements. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.