Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties

(history continued)

By 1991, more innovations were on the way. Thermafil plastic carriers once again revolutionized the technique, and TDP introduced the ThermaPrep® oven, which provided precise, controlled heating of the obturators. An entire process had now evolved, and was available as an all-in-one obturation kit known as the ThermaSystem®. Thermafil® titanium carriers and Size Verification Kits also joined the product line.

It became clear at this point that the company had a superb opportunity to promote and enhance dental education in the field of endodontics. Tulsa Dental introduced its series of Hands-On courses during 1991, and the first of what was to become an annual tradition of educational Ski Seminars was held in Crested Butte, Colorado.

Product innovation and development became a major thrust during subsequent years, which saw the introduction of the Pre-Post Preparation Instrument (the "Prepi") in 1992; highly advanced stainless steel and nickel titanium ProFile® Series 29® files in 1993; and the Sonic Air Endo System in 1994.

January 1995 ushered in a new era for TDP when the company merged with Quality Dental Products, Inc., one of the world's top five manufacturers of endodontic instruments. The newly formed company, with corporate headquarters in Tulsa and its product manufacturing and distribution center in Johnson City, Tennessee, would design, manufacture, and market the most innovative line of endodontic products available to the worldwide dental community. By this time, TDP had added ProFile® Series 29® hand files and the Pro-Post® pre-fabricated, acid-etched post system to its line. Tulsa Dental also solidified its commitment to the advancement of endodontic research and development by pledging $1 million to the American Association of Endodontists Foundation.

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