Joseph A. Blaes, DDS
Pearl #1-Extrude MPV by Kerr (Figure 1). I have hesitated to write about impression materials because everyone seems to have a favorite. I have used this material for about three years now. When someone asks me to try an impression material, Extrude MPV is my benchmark. Does the new material perform as well and as consistently as Extrude MPV? In all cases, the answer has been no, and I have gone back to using Extrude. So, what`s so great about Extrude? First off, it`s a single-mix technique, so you only have one cartridge and one mixing tip to use. The system I use in my office is a syringe/tray technique. MPV flows from the syringe to replicate complete detail, and yet it won`t slump from the tray like other single-mix materials. The material is strong enough so that subgingival details won`t tear when the impression is removed from the mouth. The product has excellent color contrast and is a good choice when using triple trays because of its rigidity following setting. Working time is adequate, and the material sets in the mouth in three minutes. This is great for the patients and the staff. I mentioned consistency earlier, and this is extremely important to me. I work hard during the crown and bridge preparation phase to prevent gingival bleeding. As a result, when I am ready to take an impression, I can see my margins, and the tooth is dry. I want an impression material that will reproduce that tooth the first time without bubbles, distortion, voids or pulls time after time. I hate to retake an impression. It`s a real waste of time and tends to put us all behind schedule. So that`s why I keep coming back to Extrude MPV as my impression material of choice. I have found the product`s price to be competitive with most of the discount impression materials. If you are having trouble reading your impression or with your margins tearing or you can`t find a consistent impression material, I would recommend that you try Extrude MPV. Order through your dealer or call Kerr
Pearl #2-Video Staff Meetings by the National Dental Network. For most dentists, holding regular staff meetings that are productive and useful is a challenge. Everyone agrees that such meetings, held on a regular basis, are important. Even so, many doctors think they are a waste of time and rely on day-to-day communication to keep everyone informed. And we all know how well that works! Enter the National Dental Network with a new idea to help us all with team building. This company produces programs that bring information into the dental practice for the entire dental team. Each program is short, concise and presents one specific technique or piece of information related to managing a dental practice. Every month, subscribers to this service receive two brief programs on videotape. These video programs also can be used as the basis for regular meetings, making it easier to prepare the agenda, but, most importantly, providing content that the entire team can view and compare to their current techniques. The videos bring into the office, every month, the most noted and experienced dental professionals in the country. Their knowledge and expertise is captured in a high-quality, fully produced video program. These experts present their information with the help of a professional program host/interviewer. Each program features a dental professional presenting one specific technique or management skill. I know how important regular team meetings have been to the success of my practice. So take a look at this service. Maybe it can help you get your practice moving in a positive direction. Call National Dental Network at (800) 803-6786.
Pearl #3-Disposable Prophy Angle by Prophy Perfect, Inc. I know that most dentists have tried throw-away prophy angles and either liked them or hated them. If you like them, then this product is for you. These angles come with a natural rubber cup that will not heat up or break apart. This is a solidly built unit with a thick shell that eliminates vibration and heat-up. The gear system is very quiet and is double-lubricated to prevent freezing of the angle. The unit is guaranteed to last through the entire prophylaxis procedure or the company will replace it free. I saved the best for last . . . the price is the best on the market! For more information or to order, call Prophy Perfect at (800) 776-3948.
Pearl #4-Absorb-Its and Safety-Wipes by Medical Innovations. When was the last time you had trouble keeping a cotton roll in place on the lingual of the lower anteriors? Absorb-its is a great new product to solve that problem and many more. The unique, anatomical shape is extremely comfortable for patients. The cellulose material effectively maintains a dry field, and it will not stick to the tissue. The softness allows them to be folded, twisted or bent to creatively fit comfortably anywhere in the oral cavity. There is no need to buy different sizes. I have found Absorb-its to be great for doing bonding procedures on upper and lower anteriors. The Safety-wipes are meant to replace the 2" x 2" gauze wipe that the hygienist uses to clean instruments while scaling. Give both of these products a try by calling Medical Innovations at (800) 826-5650.
Dr. Blaes practices in the St. Louis area and has developed every type of dental practice from solo to a 10-man group. He is known for his expertise in dental techniques and his innovative systems designs. He lectures, writes and conducts "in-house" seminars. He may be reached at (314) 843-3300.
Figure 1
