Navigating 30 years of dental innovation
We talk to Alex Guest, the UK & Ireland General Manager of BioHorizons Camlog, about the company’s remarkable heritage, growth, and reputation over the last 30 years.
Can you share the company’s original vision and how it has evolved?
AG: The original vision was to enhance the quality of life for patients with missing teeth by providing innovative dental implants and tissue regeneration products. We aimed to accomplish this by offering clinicians innovative and evidence-based dental implants and tissue regeneration products. This vision stemmed from understanding the significant impact missing teeth can have on individuals’ oral health, well-being, and self-confidence.
Over the years, our company has evolved by staying true to its core values and continuously adapting to advancements in dental technology and research. While our focus remains on improving the quality of life for patients with missing teeth, we have expanded our product offerings to provide comprehensive solutions for various dental needs.
What key milestones and achievements has the company been most proud of since its inception?
AG: We take pride in several milestones, such as our collaboration with implant pioneer, Dr Carl Misch, who was instrumental in the development of our early implant systems. BioHorizons made a significant breakthrough in implant technology with the development of the Laser-Lok® surface more than 30 years ago, which has shown impressive biologic responses, inhibiting epithelial downgrowth and promoting connective tissue attachment.
The establishment of the early foundation of the CAMLOG brand by Dr. Axel Kirsch in 1998 has significantly contributed to implant innovation over the years, notably through the system. Our leadership in the German market and introduction of the Promote® Surface further demonstrate our commitment to excellence and innovation.
How has the company grown and changed since its inception?
AG: From modest beginnings with two employees in a single country, the company has flourished into a global organisation with over 25,000 employees including Team Schein Members, head offices in the USA, Switzerland and Germany, and operating in more than 90 countries. Our commitment to excellence, innovative solutions, and patient care has positioned us as a prominent player in the dental implant industry.
The exponential growth and global reach that BioHorizons Camlog has achieved reflect our ongoing dedication to advancing dental implant technology, expanding our market presence, and providing exceptional service to dental professionals and patients worldwide.
Shifting to industry and innovation, how has the dental industry changed over the years, and how has the company adapted?
AG: Continuing its dedication to enhancing patient outcomes, BioHorizons Camlog has consistently pursued advancements in implant materials and design. While titanium remains the predominant material choice, recent years have witnessed the introduction of new materials aimed at optimising bone fusion. These innovative materials complement the existing repertoire, ensuring a more robust integration between the implants and the surrounding bone tissue. Laser-Lok® has shown to be superior in maintaining crestal bone (Pecora et al, 2009; Botos et al, 2011).
Our commitment to comprehensive solutions has led us to embrace innovative materials, refined surface treatments, and ground-breaking bone regenerative products. Our Laser-Lok® surface, Promote® Surface, and the patented CONELOG® implant system from Camlog are prime examples of technological advancements that have set us apart in the dental implant industry.
Are there industry trends or emerging technologies that the company is excited about for the future?
The future of dental implant technology holds great promise, with continued advancements in the implementation of 3D printing, guided implant surgery, and antibacterial coatings are exciting prospects. Additionally, digital imaging techniques will continue to be pivotal in treatment planning, enabling dentists to accurately assess bone density and ensure optimal implant placement.
Looking at the future, what are the key goals and aspirations of the company?
AG: Our key goals include continuing to provide evidence-based products, establishing reproducible workflows, and creating dental implants designed to improve aesthetics, function and quality of life. We’re constantly exploring projects, partnerships and acquisitions that complement our business and are aligned with our strategic goals. As part of the Henry Schein Global Oral Reconstruction Group, we have a unique ability to factor in the wider dental workflow, establishing ourselves as a 360-degree partner, not just for dental implants, but for dentistry as a whole.
By aligning these goals with our commitment to stay at the forefront of technology and innovation, we aim to solidify our position as a trusted leader in the industry and make a lasting impact on patient care and oral health outcomes.
