Flame Spray Technology from Techceram

Techceram Limited believe that by using patented Flame Spray Technology they are able to create thin, high strength custom-made alumina base-layers for dental implant restorations. For example, the picture shows a custom-made Techceram base layer for one of General Medical's Frialit-2 Implants.

Due to the fact that there is no shrinkage during processing, Techceram claims their restorations provide an accurate fit. This helps promote long-term biocompatibility with gingival tissue, essential for all restorations but especially implants.

Available in a choice of 10 translucent shades, including two New "Hollywood" shades, Techceram base layers combine with Vita Alpha Porcelains to provide natural looking aesthetics for the most discerning of patients. The coloured base-layer provides a natural background, which allows the technician to re-create the depth of colour and translucency present in natural teeth. For more information phone 01274 416664.

Reader response number 55

Visage Aesthetics

Southern Dental Industries (SDI) which manufacturer POLA, the advanced tooth whitening system, recommend that impressions for bleaching trays be forwarded to Visage Aesthetics.

Visage Aesthetics is among the few UK dental laboratories to have achieved DAMAS status (Dental Appliance Manufacturers Audit Scheme). Some of the benefits include; individual custom made tray for comfort, accurate fit to gingival margin, made from 1.5 mm thermo form plastic, 72 hour laboratory turnaround, competitively priced at £25 per tray, pre paid postal service.

For more information telephone 01933 313123.

Reader response number 56

Better performance

The TiOblast and Microthread from Astra Tech Dental Implant system evolves from both biological and bio mechanical aspects and Astra Tech claims that this favours the clinical performance regardless of the clinical protocol used.

Astra claims the TiOblast surface has an optimal surface texture, stimulating bone formation for an enhanced bone-to- implant interface. They also claim this surface in combination with the microthreading design at the cortical part of the fixture provides a favoured environment for the distribution of forces transmitted to the bone.

For more information phone 01453 791763.

Reader response number 57

The coDiagnostiX CT from Benchmark

Benchmark is aware of the need to embrace the latest technology to maintain their high standards, and as patients' expectations rise, so the dental implant team must use the full technology available that helps to achieve the best possible prosthetic results.

Benchmark staff are now operating the coDiagnostiX CT Scan programme. This is a system for dental implant planning, which incorporates a 3D engine. This allows high precision and predictable planning, which minimises the risk to the patient.

Benchmark claims the introduction of the coDiagnostiX system allows the technician to be involved with the advanced planning of the case. In angulation and approximation of position the titanium tube can be placed to 1/10th of a degree and 1/10th of a millimetre.

The surgical technique that the surgeon employ will be to drill through the soft tissue into the bone to a depth of approximately 5mm and a diameter of 2.20mm, this will allow for the direction of the osteotomy to be fixed.

For more information on this or any other Benchmark products email mail@benchmarkdentallab.com.

Reader response number 58

A new radiopaque line from Ivoclar Vivadent

Ivoclar Vivadent has developed a radiopaque line of teeth, SR Vivo TAC and SR Ortho TAC, for pre-implantological diagnostics. The pre-fabricated teeth are set-up in diagnostic stents.

Ivoclar Vivadent claims their moulds correspond to those of the popular SR Vivodent/SR Orthotyp tooth lines. Consequently, it is now possible to consider the functional, phonetic and aesthetic aspects of an implant-supported restoration during radiodiagnostics.

The position of the SR Vivo TAC and SR Ortho TAC teeth in the dental arch is easily adjusted with a radiopaque modifier resin before the X-rays are taken. This method saves time and money compared with the conventional procedure with a separate wax-up. For more information phone 0116 265 4055.

Reader response number 59

Implant Directory from Haley Ltd

Haley Ltd is pleased to announce the launch of the Implant Directory. The centre is aimed at the general public to both educate and promote implant care.

The concept is designed to increase awareness of dental implants amongst the general public and create an image that appeals to all ages. By seeking to change current perceptions, propagated by the popular press and patients alike, and ensure that the benefits are seen to outweigh the costs, it is designed to increase referrals and enquiries to dentists.

The Implant Directory will form an integral part of a complete marketing strategy, which will include a high profile media campaign. This will involve a national PR campaign using a range of media, radio interviews, telephone helpline, website, posters and leaflets etc.

For more information telephone 01380 734999.

Reader response number 60

No more taping up suction tubes any more

Dürr Dental says practitioners are aware of the relatively short life of a suction tube. The tubes undergo a lot of wear and tear during use and usually end up, bent over and around the nurses' hand, which puts additional stress on the top end of the tube. This results in the tube splitting and being 'patched up' whilst awaiting a replacement.

Dürr Dental has designed a suction tube end that will fit most manufacturer's HV tubing. They claim that the age-old problem of tubes being patched up whilst awaiting a replacement are a thing of the past.

Dürr Dental claims this attachment features a swivel sleeve that allows the cannula to rotate through 360°. There is also a valve on the hand piece should no rotation be required. A ball joint ensures the tube can be used at any angle without being bent. All parts on the attachment can be autoclaved allowing practices to change the hand piece from patient to patient.

For more information visit www.duerruk.com.

Reader response number 61