Procedure Reliability and Restoration Longevity
Utilizing Dentsply Sirona's Single-Unit Crown Total Practice Solution™
Scott C. Dickinson, DMD
The two most common procedures in my clinical practice are direct posterior resins and single-unit crowns. Despite completing these two procedures frequently, I am always looking for increased efficiency, not only through time savings, but also in procedure reliability. To help simplify and streamline these techniques, Dentsply Sirona has designed the Single-Unit Crown Total Practice Solution, which includes products to help dentists fabricate and cement excellent provisional restorations, record outstanding final impressions, and de-stress definitive cementation.
The first visit goal for the single-unit crown procedure in my office is to record a precise final impression and to fabricate a well-fitting and well-marginated provisional restoration. Before beginning the preparation, AlginX™ Alginate Alternative material is used in a closed-bite tray to fabricate a matrix. In this manner, AlginX is used to create a detailed pattern impression that will be used immediately to fabricate a provisional restoration. After completing tooth preparation, Integrity® Multi-Cure Temporary Crown & Bridge Material is dispensed into the matrix and reseated into the mouth. Ninety seconds later, the matrix is removed with the still-setting provisional inside. This is usually a time that dentists must wait several minutes for the final setting of the provisional material; however, Integrity Multi-Cure only requires 20 seconds of light curing to facilitate final setting and immediate trimming.
The latest generation of Aquasil® Ultra+ Smart Wetting® Impression Material is then used to create a precise and error-free final impression because it offers three important clinical benefits: market-leading tear strength, improved hydrophilicity, and several viscosity and timing options. Finally, the provisional is cemented with Integrity® Tempgrip Temporary Crown & Bridge Cement, which is designed to provide strong retention in the presence of natural moisture for decreased post-operative sensitivity.
The goal of the second visit is to definitively cement the final restoration. The choice of cement can depend on factors such as preparation design, crown material, and esthetics, but in most cases a self-adhesive resin is an appropriate option. To minimize the stress of cementation, Calibra® Universal Self-Adhesive Resin Cement is used because it provides the strength of resin and features an extended gel phase for easier cleanup.
The Dentsply Sirona Total Practice Solution provides high-performance products for every step of the procedure and helps me create consistently excellent restorations for my patients that will last for years to come.
For more information, contact:
Dentsply Sirona
800-532-2855
www.singleunitrestorations.com
About the Author
Scott C. Dickinson, DMD, maintains an active general practice in Pensacola, Florida. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School Of Dental Medicine and completed his AEGD in the United States Army.
