Heraeus Kulzer, LLC, the worldwide leader in dental esthetics, announced today that in 2013 its Precious Metal Refining Division will support the Foundation for Dental Laboratory Technology (FDLT) with a donation for the third consecutive year.

A non-profit organization founded in 2008 with funding from the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL), FDLT's purpose is to advance the profession of dental laboratory technology by developing educational curriculums and programs for dental technicians and other members of the dental team.

In 2011, Heraeus announced that it would make a charitable contribution to the Foundation based on the value of refined scrap from all NADL/FDLT member laboratories that use Heraeus' refining services. The company renewed its commitment in 2012 and now has done so again in 2013.

"Dental laboratories play a critical role in partnering with Heraeus and our dental practice customers to provide the best possible oral health care for patients," said Tony Circelli, Manager of Heraeus' Precious Metal Refining Division. "If the dental laboratory technician does not have up-to-date skills and knowledge, our innovative esthetic materials are of little benefit to anyone. That is why we are so pleased to be able to continue to provide financial support for the outstanding educational efforts of the Foundation for Dental Laboratory Technology."

The FDLT, which is sustained by ongoing charitable contributions, is committed to addressing three main industry challenges: • The declining number of educated dental technicians. • The gap between dental technicians' expected knowledge and skills and the opportunities to acquire that level of knowledge and skills. • Enabling dental technicians to stay current and advise dentists on emerging technologies and materials.

"The Foundation provides scholarships to interested candidates for advanced education or certification, and it makes Keystone Grants of up to $5,000 per year to accredited educational institutions to integrate new technology into their programs. These grants are also available to non-accredited schools to help fund accreditation " says Barbara Warner Wojdan, CDT, AAACD, Foundation Chair and President of Knight Dental Group. "We applaud Heraeus for their corporate commitment to the industry. Their generosity goes a long way toward ensuring the future of this vibrant and changing industry."

One of the Foundation's primary goals is to develop a web-based educational body of knowledge for dental technicians. Many dental laboratories that employ more than a few people struggle with how to properly train and educate their employees so that they have the skills and knowledge required to meet the quality and consistency expectations of their customers. The Foundation's web-based education can become an important part of the in-house training and education for laboratories not able to develop their own. In addition, individual laboratory technicians whose employers do not have an education program can access these online resources on their own.

Heraeus Precious Metal Refining is the world's largest private precious metal refiner. The company heats, melts, separates and analyzes precious metals in a single location to give laboratories and dentists the highest possible return for their dental scrap metal. By eliminating surprise fees and minimum lot charges, Heraeus is able to give its customers the utmost in value and service.

Considered the global gold standard in dental esthetics materials, Heraeus operates a state-of-the-art refinery in Newark, New Jersey. The facility receives more than 25,000 scrap shipments annually, 80% of which are from existing loyal customers. Because it processes its own scrap from beginning to end, Heraeus offers direct, personalized contact without any middlemen, saving time and money for its valued customers.

To keep its customers up-to-date regarding product developments, special promotions, educational offerings and other value-added services, Heraeus is asking customers to share their email addresses. In return, customers can choose a free gift. Click here to sign up: http://heraeusdentalusa.com/signup.

For more information on Heraeus or its products, call (800) 431-1785 or visit www.heraeusdentalusa.com.

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