One Adhesive for All Applications

Alan Wickenhauser, DMD, on Kerr’s OptiBond™ Universal 360

Time is an important commodity. We measure it daily for every clinical evaluation and every direct or indirect restoration. Although I am always focused on delivering the highest quality care to patients, selecting the best tools based on scientific evidence and implementing new materials that deliver superior results can help to create time efficiencies for the clinical staff and our patients. Kerr recently introduced OptiBond^™ Universal 360, a single component universal adhesive that sets a new standard for adhesive technology regarding bond strength, versatility, durability, and guarding against postoperative sensitivity.

For universal adhesives, shear bond strength is the gold standard in assessing the bonding performance of restorative materials-either direct or indirect. Excellent sheer bond strength is essential for the success of any restoration. Regarding indirect restorations, I have used OptiBond Universal 360 for zirconia, PFM, and lithium disilicate, and it can be used with other dental substrates, including gold, base metal alloys, alumina, titanium, and PFZ, without the need for separate ceramic or metal primers. I find that the one-coat application both saves time and creates less opportunity for contamination. For direct restorations, I believe that the shear bond strength to dentin is superior to that of any other self-etching product.

Another thing about OptiBond Universal 360 that makes it a game-changer is its versatility. This universal adhesive combines etching, priming, and bonding in one bottle. Many scientific publications have documented the benefits of Kerr's patented GPDM monomer, which provides for greater micromechanical retention, bond strength, and durability. When I use OptiBond Universal 360 for direct resin restorations, I can rely on its superior bond strength to all surfaces and substrates with any resin cement, even in the absence of light. In addition, this universal adhesive delivers three solvents in one: water, acetone, and ethanol.

Experiencing postoperative sensitivity is like having a fly land in your soup. No one wants it to happen. The GPDM and MDP technology in OptiBond Universal 360 lowers the surface tension of dentin, allowing the adhesive to permeate deeper into the dentin tubules for a superior bond and seal. This offers a distinct advantage in the prevention of any postoperative sensitivity issues.

And finally, thanks to the all-new ergonomic bottle design, you'll only need one hand for opening, dispensing, and closing. This allows you to deliver a precise drop size at every application without worrying about leakage before and after, leading to less waste and greater efficiency. OptiBond Universal 360 is truly universal, and that is why it is an essential tool in my armamentarium.

Key Takeaways

1. Provides superior bond strength with as little as one coat and no need for separate ceramic or metal primers.

2. Patented GPDM technology facilitates enhanced bonding to all substrates, including zirconia, PFM, lithium disilicate, gold, base metal alloys, alumina, titanium, and PFZ.

3.  Lowers the surface tension of dentin, allowing the adhesive to permeate deeper for a superior bond and seal that protects against postoperative sensitivity.

4. Ergonomic bottle design permits one-hand dispensing for improved ease of use.

Alan Wickenhauser, DMD
Assistant Professor
Department of Restorative Dentistry
Southern Illinois University
School of Dental Medicine
Alton, Illinois

Manufacturer Information
Kerr Dental • go.kerrdental.com/optibond360 • 800-KERR-123