Simroid Dental Robot: International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo

This "Simroid" is a dental patient simulator for dental students. Apparently, she has quite the realistic facial expressions, a gag reflex and can "experience" pain. She is currently one of the stars of the International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo (and not surprisingly, YouTube).





Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

The practice is closed for the week: My father-in-law has passed away.

I am saddened to report that the practice is closed until Saturday due to the passing of my father-in-law from complications due to his cancer. Any emergencies can be managed by Jodie and may be handled by my good friend Dr. Andrew El-Faizy.

The funeral will be held on Thursday Nov 22/07 at the OGDEN funeral home 4164 Sheppard ave E (at Midland) at 11 am. Shilpa and I appreciate your prayers and consideration during this time.

Take care.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Oral Cancer Rates in Canada

Approximately 3,200 new cases and 1,050 deaths from oral cancer occur each year in Canada. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed late and require aggressive treatment. As a result, 50% of oral cancer patients die within 5 years of diagnosis.

Source: Point of Care: What do I need to know about oral cancer screening?, JCDA, November 2007, Vol 73, No 9, pg 797-8.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

A Reminder to Take Advantage of your Dental Insurance

Hi everyone,

This is just a reminder to our patients to take advantage of their insurance benefits before December 31st. Most dental plans cover approximately $1000 to $2500 a year in coverage. However, if you do not use them by the end of the year you will lose the remaining amount. Usually, a new insurance year starts in the New Year.

Let our practice know if this is your situation and we will try our best to accommodate your dental needs and your schedule. We have convenient evening and Saturday hours available.

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Leadership Keys

Saw this in an Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Journal:

Six essential qualities of a leader:

1. Beliefs: Develop strong core beliefs.
2. Optimism: Be a problem solver not a problem maker; believe that there are solutions.
3. Courage: Take action in the face of fear.
4. Preparation: Do your homework; "luck" is where opportunity and preparedness intersect.
5. Teamwork: Be humble and know that you can get others to help with success.
6. Communication: People who can influence others can move the world; become good at it by practicing the preceding five qualities.

I thought these were great points that I could use to enhance the practice going forward.

Source: Stolz B, Tips for Building an Unstoppable Team, Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry Fall 2007, Vol 23, No 3, pg 70-72.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Moving to iTrans

Well, we've got broadband Internet in the office (finally...I was getting tired of dial-up!) and I am pleased to announce that we will one of the first tier of practices to be moving to the iTrans system to further expedite claims and predeterminations. I'll be releasing more information as we progress on this little project, especially the specific advantages of the new system.

Take care,


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100