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I have it—you need it! [Products 1-3]

Oct. 17, 2024

Howard Glazer, DDS, FAGD, is here to talk about the benefits of the Jacobson Innovations Butterfly Matrix, BeautiLink SA by Shofu Dental Corporation, and the Pola Light Advanced Tooth Whitening System.

Howard S. Glazer, DDS, FAGD

The Butterfly Matrix

Until recently, we have relied on either Teflon tape or various celluloid strips when performing anterior tooth restorations. But now, the Butterfly Matrix can be used to facilitate tooth isolation for class III and class IV restorations-as well as isolation during the preparation and cementation of anterior veneers and crowns.

Dr. Jacobson's clear strips are pliable, soft, and can easily slip through contact points and adapt to the tooth contours. The matrix contains a wedge and lingual wings for securely holding it in place, so there is no need to worry when using high -speed evacuation during the procedure. It also serves as a dam by preventing blood and crevicular fluids from contaminating the site during the restorative procedure. Furthermore, this device is latex- free and one-size-fits-all.

Lastly, it is easy to remove and leaves no residue. You will no longer be dependent on your assistant holding the matrix or bulky wedges if you use this cost-effective matrix system. Kudos to Dr. Jacobson for creating a time-saving solution to a common problem that can enhance our ability to create beautiful anterior restorations.

BeautiLink SA

I like things that are easy-and this new cement is a walk in the park.

BeautiLink SA (Shofu) is specifically designed for cementing zirconia restorations easily. Self-adhesive and dual-cured, this resin cement contains GIOMER chemistry, which has been proven to have great antibacterial and acid neutralization effects. Along with its ability to release and recharge fluoride, it can also help reduce decay. The cement handles well with a good consistency, comes in a dual-barrel automix syringe, and cleans up easily. Although it does not require a primer, I use BeautiBond Xtreme as a primer to assist in optimizing retention.

BeautiLink SA is available in three shades: clear, ivory, and opaque. There is an ample two minutes of working time, and it is fully set in about three (or five minutes when using the opaque shade). I generally tack-cure for a few seconds and then easily remove the excess cement. Cost-wise, this is great value when compared to leading competitors. Zirconia restorations have become extremely popular and seem to dominate the market for posterior restorations, and BeautiLink SA is a strong, easy-to-use cement that will ensure their long-term viability.

Pola Light Advanced Tooth Whitening System

Patients want whiter teeth and faster results. Although some prefer in-office treatment, many others prefer to whiten their teeth at home. Luckily, Pola Light Advanced Tooth Whitening System may be the answer for those who want an at-home, easy-to-use system that can show results in as little as five days.

SDI's Pola line-up of whitening products is reliable and has a proven track record for comfort, safety, and success when it comes to whitening teeth. This at-home product is no exception. Pola products have been formulated to safely remove stains, and they provide extra hydration to prevent sensitivity and increase patient comfort. The patient has two whitening options: Pola Day (9.5% hydrogen peroxide) or Pola Night (22% carbamide peroxide) to use with the rechargeable Pola LED mouthpiece.

Depending on the material, the blue or red light will activate for 10 or 15 minutes. Additional material can be purchased through the dental office. Even though results appear quickly, patients should be reminded that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, as all whitening is regressive, and teeth will continue to stain from liquids such as coffee, soda, and wine. For active, "on-the-go" patients, this just may be the answer for achieving and maintaining a whiter and brighter smile.