3M ESPE designated as most innovative

For the second year running, 3M ESPE ranked as the most innovative company in the worldwide dental industry, according to the 2006 Dental Industry Review conducted by The Anaheim Group, distributors of Dental Fax Weekly.

"At the heart of the company's culture lies 100+ years of research and development expertise, making discovery a way of life at 3M ESPE," said Jeff Lavers, division vice president, 3M ESPE. "With more than 6,500 scientists company-wide, it's no surprise that innovation is fostered at every level within the organization - from the lab to the sales force." During the past five years, 3M ESPE has led the dental industry with an average of 45 innovations per year. The Anaheim Group considers three components in its innovation index including: FDA 510(k) new product clearances for the U.S. market; United States Patent Office dental industry patents; and dental patents from the European Patent Office and the World International Patent Office.