BEAUTIFIL Flow Plus® X

Improved radiopacity and esthetics for all classes of restorations

Howard S. Glazer, DDS

Can an excellent product become an exceptional product? Shofu has answered that question with a resounding "yes" by introducing Beautifil Flow Plus® X, an ion-releasing, injectable hybrid resin that facilitates minimally invasive cosmetic procedures for patients with outstanding results.

This brilliant new flowable composite still incorporates the proprietary Giomer chemistry that is well-known for its ability to release and recharge six beneficial ions from its surface pre-reacted glass (S-PRG) fillers. These ions are fluoride, which helps form fluorapatite, has an antibacterial effect, and aids in the remineralization of the decalcified lesion; strontium, which accelerates bone formation and remineralization and improves acid resistance; aluminum, which inhibits hypersensitivity; silicate, which induces remineralization; borate, which also has an antibacterial effect and aids in bone formation; and finally, there is sodium, which helps facilitate the function of all of the other ions.

From a clinical standpoint, the material's radiopacity has been increased, and because it appears as transparent as natural enamel, its ability to match the color of the natural dentition has been improved as well. The material offers superb handling and is extremely polishable, allowing for a very sustainable high-gloss finish.

Beautifil Flow Plus X is a non-oozing, non-dripping, non-sticky flowable resin paste that is available in two viscosities (ie, F00 [zero flow] and F03 [low flow]; designation indicates the amount of flow when held vertically for 1 minute). It is self-leveling and will hold its shape without deforming for 60 seconds. This strong, flowable resin has a compressive strength of 358 MPa and a flexural strength of 120 MPa, which can easily withstand high-stress loads on the occlusal surface and marginal ridge. Using both the F00 and F03 viscosities will enable you to perform all classifications of restorations for both the adult and pediatric dentition without necessitating the use of a packable resin and without sacrificing strength, hardness, amount of polished surface, or long-term fracture resistance.

Esthetic restorations are easier to place with the wide range of shades that are available in both the F00 and F03 viscosities. Without listing all of the available shades, I can confidently say that you will not have a problem in matching the patient's natural dentition for a highly esthetic result. In addition to the VITA shades, Beautifil Flow Plus X offers three additional opaque shades as well as two unique shades: "milky" and "cervical."

With all of the benefits added to this formulation, I would say that the "X" in Beautifil Flow Plus X stands for the Roman numeral 10, because this formulation is 10-times more extraordinary than the original Beautifil Flow Plus.

Key Takeaways

1. Utilizes proprietary Giomer technology, which releases and recharges fluoride in addition to five other bioactive ions
2. Strong material that handles easily and stays where it is placed (ie, F00 - zero flow)
3. Highly esthetic material that easily polishes to a long-lasting, glossy shine
4. Useful for all classifications of carious lesions in both the adult and pediatric dentition

Manufacturer Information
Shofu Dental Corporation
shofu.com
800-827-4638

About the Author

Howard S. Glazer, DDS
Private Practice
Fort Lee, New Jersey