ITC Asks for Comments on Alleged Patent Infringement by Lithium Silicate Imports

The International Trade Commission is asking for comments by March 5 on public interest factors related to possible patent infringement by imports of lithium silicate materials used to make dental restorations. Ivoclar Vivadent filed its complaint Feb. 19, alleging imports of lithium silicate materials by Dentsply infringe its patents in violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act (see 14022401). It said Dentsply recently began importing infringing lithium silicate dental products under the trade name Celtra Duo. Ivoclar is requesting limited exclusion orders and cease and desist orders banning importation and sale of the allegedly infringing products.