California-based !%Biolase Inc.’s%! EPIC 10 soft-tissue diode laser platform was awarded the gold medal for the Dental Instruments, Equipment and Supplies category at the 15th Annual Medical Design Excellence Awards (MDEA) ceremony held this year in Philadelphia. The platform is used for a variety of surgical soft-tissue procedures in dentistry as an alternative to conventional devices such as the high-speed drill, scalpel and electrosurge. Its 940-nm wavelength is better absorbed by hemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin, enabling it to cut more efficiently at low power with less heat and patient discomfort.