Iwant to thank you for having such an outstanding magazine in Dental Economics®. Recently, because of my busy schedule, I have been using a “quick scan” method for looking at the dental magazines I receive. What I do is scan the index and write down the pages of articles I want to read. Hands down, I read 10 to 15 articles in DE compared to two or three in other publications. I also like it that most articles are concise and limited to one page. Thanks, and keep up the great job.
Steve Olsen, DDS
San Francisco, Calif.
Likes performance of Lumineers
The article by Chris Pescatore, DMD (October DE, page 110), is incorrect [concerning veneers]. He needs to attend a Lumineers® (DenMat Cerinate®) course and learn what can be done with the ultra-thin veneers, as well as learn the proper use of different shade cements and color modifiers. Most patients do not want their teeth cut down, yet want to change the look. The slight increase in thickness also helps with upper lip support and results in a more youthful appearance.
Ray Hambuchen, DDS
Conway, Ark.
Official Army bugle call; "Taps" explained
In response to the article in the December Dental Economics regarding “Taps” (Editor’s Note, page 6), I have encountered similar versions of the origin of Taps as the official bugle call. All are myths, and do not reflect the history of the Army bugle call.
Having served in the Armed Forces of the United States for an extended period, I am familiar with military history and Army history in particular. I do wish to bring to your attention the erroneous content of your article referring to the origin of Taps.
Search the Internet for the historical source regarding the initial playing of the official bugle call under “Taps.” Here is an excerpt from History of Taps:
“While commanding a brigade of the V Corps of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War, General Butterfield was not pleased with the call for "Extinguish Lights," feeling that the call was too formal to signal the day"s end and, with the help of the brigade bugler, Oliver Wilcox Norton, wrote "Taps" to honor his men while in camp at Harrison"s Landing, Va., following the Seven Days battle ... The call sounded that night in July 1862. Although yet unnamed, the other brigades began playing General Butterfield"s song as well.
After the war, the music was deemed the official Army bugle call. In 1874, General Butterfield"s songs was named "Taps". It is now played by the military at burials, memorial services, during the lowering of the flag, and to signal the end of a military day."
Gerhard Malcharek, DDS, Colonel USA Retired
Irvington, Ill.
