Joseph Blaes, DDS
Pearl #1 - Zekrya Gingival Protector by Zenith. When I speak at dental meetings throughout the country, this is one of the instruments that people ask the most questions about. This is the one instrument that I wouldn`t be without when I prep a tooth! My philosophy in prepping teeth is to prevent injury to the gingival tissues if at all possible. To my way of thinking, it is easier to prevent bleeding tissue than to spend a lot of time using different chemicals to stop bleeding tissue. This simple instrument prevents injury to the gingival tissue by gently retracting the tissue out of the way, while it exposes the tooth margin for easy visualization. Once you can see the margin, it is much quicker and easier to prep it. It makes prepping veneers and crowns simple. It is a must for finishing porcelain-veneer margins. It comes with a swivel-joint protector arc that is reusable, autoclavable, and adjustable. It allows simple adjustment to a desired position to adapt to all sizes of teeth. Because the protector arc is flexible, it will adapt to the cervical portion of the tooth. Order from your dealer or call Zenith at (800) 662-6383.
Pearl #2 - Pumice Preppies by Whip Mix. Finally! A simple, individual packet of PUMICE! Packaged just like your prophy pastes, this is unit-dose flour of pumice paste. It is ideal for use in cleaning the tooth surface prior to etching for restoration cementation. It is a cleaning agent that contains no flavoring agents, oils, or fluoride. Each cup provides enough flour of pumice paste for a single use, thus providing optimum infection control and savings by eliminating waste. Call and order from Whip Mix Corporation at (800) 626-5651.
Pearl #3 - RotoMix by ESPE. Traditionally, ESPE has been the company to do innovative things with materials in capsules. I have used many of their products over the years. These mixers are designed especially for mixing the material capsule products for which they are famous. This is a unique design that will rotate the capsule instead of shaking it, and then spin it like a centrifuge. In the rotational cycle, the capsule spins counterdirectionally to the rotating platform. The material is mixed in all directions during this cycle to assure a completely homogeneous mix. In the centrifugal cycle, RotoMix locks the capsule in place on the rotating platform so that it spins with the platform. This step forces out any entrapped air so there are no air bubbles in the material. This step also allows the material to be dispensed far more easily. This is a significant step in mixing materials. Capsulated dental materials were developed to facilitate higher powder-liquid ratios and a more consistent mix. How thoroughly the materials are mixed is significant to the final physical properties of the set material. The disadvantage of conventional mixers is the high amount of air that is incorporated into the material during the mix. I like the capsule idea for consistent mixes every time, and now I have a great new mixer to make them even more consistent. Order from your dealer or call ESPE at (800) 344-8235.
Pearl #4 - Compolute Aplicap by ESPE. Now we have a dual-cure, composite-resin cement in the convenience of a capsule. I have been using Compolute for my inlays and veneers with me a consistency of mix and an ease of handling and delivery. The material has a medium viscosity that does not run or slump when placed, but it has a very low film thickness that allows you to fully seat your restorations. The applicator allows for simple, direct placement of the material onto the tooth or into the restoration. Since the mix is controlled, the setting time is exact with every patient. Using a throwaway capsule enhances our infection-control system and saves time on cleanup. The material comes in four great shades. I particularly like the inclusion of a chameleon or neutral shade, so that the cement does not affect the shade of my finished restoration. It comes with a great bonding system as well. Thanks, ESPE, for another terrific product! Order from your dealer or call ESPE at (800) 344-8235.
Dr. Blaes has a general practice in the St. Louis area. He is known for his expertise in dental materials and techniques and his innovative systems designs. He writes and lectures on "How To Increase Productivity and Profitability." He may be reached at (314) 434-6808.
