All too often we think silane is only for use when working with porcelain laminate veneers or with cementation of crowns or inlays/onlays, namely feldspathic porcelain or lithium disilicate. While those uses are apropos, we often overlook the use of silane in the repair of broken porcelain restorations, such as fractured cusps or chipped laminate veneers. In the midst of COVID-19, we need to provide quick and successful remedies for patients with such problems. A major factor in reaching successful outcomes lies in the efficacy of the silane coupling agent used in these procedures. Premixed silane has a rather short shelf life of approximately six months, so that silane on your shelf may no longer be functional. Fusion Silane to the rescue!
Taub Products’ Fusion Silane is a two-part primer that allows for the chemical adhesion of composite, acrylic, and methacrylate-based resins to porcelain. According to the manufacturer, once the resin has cured over the Fusion Silane–primed surface, the chemical bond is immediate, extremely strong, and will continue to increase in strength over time. Fusion Silane will work with any brand of composite, microfill hybrid, or flowable resin. My favorite aspect of Fusion Silane is that it’s a two-bottle/component system that you mix at least 15 minutes before a procedure. Once mixed, the silane is good for approximately three weeks. The individual components have a shelf life of about two years. This means you will most likely always have fresh silane ready to go when the emergency repair is necessary. Don’t overlook the extreme value of this product for all your cementation needs for metal (both precious and nonprecious), and ceramo-metal. It will enhance the wettability of a roughened metal surface, creating a stronger mechanical bond and stronger chemical bond if oxides are present.
Fusion Silane allows us to be at the ready for esthetic emergencies involving crowns, inlays/onlays, and of course, porcelain laminate veneers, as well as routine cementation of materials previously mentioned.
Howard Glazer, DDS, FAGD, is a columnist for Dental Economics. He is a key opinion leader in dental products and maintains a general practice in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Dr. Glazer is a fellow and past president of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). He lectures frequently on the subjects of dental materials, cosmetic dentistry, forensic dentistry, and patient management.
