When I graduated from dental school, I never imagined that I would be able to stick fillings onto teeth and have them stay in place. Every tooth preparation had some retentive undercuts to keep the fillings (mostly amalgams) in the teeth. Those undercuts undermined the enamel cusps and caused most of the tooth fractures that we saw. Along came adhesives and we needed a way to dry the enamel and dentin before we applied them. With today’s fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth generation adhesives, there are many different directions for preparation of the tooth prior to applying them. My technique for cementing veneers requires etching, rinsing, and drying the tooth. Thanks to A-dec’s patented Warm Air Tooth Dryer, I can quickly and easily prepare the tooth surface for bonding. This innovative instrument produces a gentle flow of warm air (about 130°F at the tip), so it not only reduces moisture, but also provides much more comfort for the patient than cold air from an ordinary syringe. Some of my other cementation techniques require a moist surface for the adhesive. This is easily achieved with the gentle flow of air that is produced. The tooth dryer takes advantage of a simple law of physics. Compressed air passes through a vortex tube to produce a gentle flow of warm air. Since there are no electrical or moving parts, you can expect long-term, reliable operation. Since the A-dec tooth dryer is based upon simple technology, it can be easily installed to any source of clean, dry compressed air (60 psi). The instrument is fully autoclavable and foot control activated for added convenience. It also comes with a holder, supply tubing, and control valve. Order from your dealer or visit www.a-dec.com for more information.
Scotchbond™ Universal Adhesive from 3M ESPE
Are you and your assistants tired of juggling adhesive systems to get the results you want, then having to sort through multiple bottles to select the right product for the indication and then ensuring the directions are followed for a consistent technique to prevent problems like postoperative sensitivity? With new Scotchbond Universal Adhesive, you and your assistants now have an easy-to-use, single-bottle solution that provides uncompromising results for all surfaces in total- or self-etch mode. Surveys show that ease of use, postoperative sensitivity concerns, and versatility across surfaces are some of the top reasons for using multiple adhesive brands. Scotchbond Universal Adhesive was developed so that you can streamline your adhesive systems with one simple product that addresses your most important adhesive needs. This adhesive offers a unique combination of total- and self-etch properties, with consistent and reliable performance in all adhesive techniques. Whether used for a direct or indirect procedure, or on dentin or enamel, Scotchbond Universal Adhesive provides the performance and bond strength that you are seeking. This adhesive will bond to all surfaces without primer. The incorporation of Vitrebond™ Copolymer into the product enhances the technique-tolerance and ease of use. To use the product, dentists simply apply the adhesive to the tooth with agitation for 20 seconds, air dry the area for five seconds, and light cure for 10 seconds. Alternately, an optional etch with phosphoric acid can be performed for 15 seconds prior to application of the adhesive. This simple application process helps Scotchbond Universal perform reliably, regardless of user technique. The product is moisture-tolerant and exhibits high bond performance on moist and dry dentin and enamel. You and your assistant will love the new flip-top vial delivery option that allows for one-hand operation. No more running to the refrigerator because the product can be stored at room temperature for up to two years. The adhesive is also available in my favorite unit dose delivery system. Scotchbond Universal Adhesive’s formulation will give you excellent bond strength and assures you of virtually no postoperative sensitivity — in both the total-etch and self-etch techniques. For more information, visit www.3MESPE.com or call 3M ESPE customer care at (800)-634-2249.
Honigum Pro with GPS Technology from DMG America
The Science of Buffering from Onpharma®
Dentistry’s Business Secrets: Proven Growth Strategies for Your New or Existing Practice by Dr. Edward Logan
To have Dr. Joe Blaes present his lecture, “Pearls For Your Practice®,” for your study group or dental society, please call (866) 274-4500.