Joseph Blaes, DDS
Pearl #1 - Position Penta Impression Material by ESPE. When ESPE introduced the unique Pentamix automix machine a few years ago, we assumed that this fancy machine was great for Impregum. But what if you used some other impression material? ESPE proved us all wrong by introducing a full line of impression materials that is mixed by the very efficient and consistent Pentamix. The latest in this line of impression materials is a silicone product that has been formulated to replace alginate. I have been using this material for about three months in the office and have found it to be great for preliminary impressions and study-model impressions. This product is automatically mixed, stable, elastic, durable and can be disinfected. The resulting impressions have better detail than alginates, and they are unaffected by evaporation, temperature and humidity. Using the Pentamix to automatically mix the material, you will eliminate the dust, messy mixing bowls and the wasted time and materials associated with alginate impressions. Since the Position Penta has the accuracy and elasticity of a PVS impression, you can pour these impressions multiple times with outstanding tear resistance. This could truly replace alginate in your office. To order, call your dealer or for more information, check them out on the web at www.espeusa.com.
Pearl #2 - KY Crown Removal Pliers From GC America. I was visiting with the GC America folks at the Chicago Midwinter meeting in February. They showed me many great, new products, but one was a product that they have had for a number of years. This is a nifty instrument for handling both temporary crowns and full crowns. Since the bisacryl temporary crowns are very hard, it is difficult to remove them with the towel clamps that I once used. The sharp points just skip off the temps. The KY Pliers give a great grip and make temporary crown removal easy. For handling crowns, place rubber-packing material on the tips of the pliers to protect the crown. Next, dip the rubber tips into some emery powder that is supplied. This emery powder is like magic; the tips will not slip off the crown. I have found the pliers to be very effective for carrying crowns to the mouth for try-in and cementation and for removing crowns after trying them in. No more dropping crowns in the mouth because your gloves are slippery. No more struggling to get crowns off after you have tried them in the mouth ... thanks to a wonderful instrument! Order from your dealer.
Pearl #3 - JetShield by DENTSPLY Preventive Care. Does your hygienist use a Prophy Jet? Do you want to buy her something she will thank you for every time she uses it? If so, buy her the new JetShield. This is a simple device that works! Attach the disposable tubing to the tip of the Prophy Jet and attach the other end either to the suction system or to the saliva-ejection system. Now there is a cup-shaped device at the end of the Prophy Jet that fits snugly against the tooth that evacuates the aerosols produced. Spray and splatter is reduced by 97 percent. My hygienists always have liked the Prophy Jet, but have complained about the spray. Over the years, most hygienists learn to control the spray, but it always has been a problem. They put up with the inconvenience of the spray because they have always felt that air polishing does a better job of removing stains, plaque and soft debris. Our patients like the fresh, minty feel in their mouths after we are finished. JetShield`s design ensures that you are working at the proper angulation and distance from the tooth. Combine this with the virtual elimination of spray, and the results are greater patient comfort and greater visibility when you are working. You also can use the tip to eliminate any saliva that may be pooling elsewhere in the mouth. It is very convenient. Once you have completed a procedure, simply dispose of the used JetShield. This is a no-brainer! Order now from your local dealer or call DENTSPLY Preventive Care at (800) 989-8826 for more information.
Pearl #4 ? Breathless by Breathless Northern, Inc. Refresh your breath instantly and naturally. Now, you can enjoy the confidence of clean, fresh breath with the only 100 percent-natural, alcohol-free breath freshener on the market. I like to use a breath freshener when I know that I am going to be in a close, one-on-one conversation during the day. I want to be sure that the thoughts that I am expressing are not lost because my patient is distracted by mouth odor. Now you can control mouth odor with pleasant-tasting Breathless spray. Since there is no alcohol, you don?t get that aftertaste. For a fresh, confident feeling, use all-natural Breathless before all personal encounters. Order by calling (972) 208-1559.
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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.
