Today's dentists face a myriad of challenges: demanding patients, the need for durable and long-lasting results, and the expectation of restorations that look natural and aesthetically pleasing. The good news is that using the right materials can make your daily challenges much easier. One such innovative solution is Kulzer's TCD matrix, a breakthrough in dental composite technology.
1. Exceptional durability and strength
First and foremost, the value of durable dental materials cannot be overstated. Patients expect and deserve restorations that stand the test of time, minimising the need for repeat visits and additional treatments. Kulzer's Tricyclodecane (TCD) matrix is specifically designed for durability, with a high degree of cross-linking that provides exceptional mechanical strength. This robust structure helps to reduce the likelihood of chipping and fracture, one of the main reasons for restoration failure.
“I prefer to use Venus Pearl composite for tackling tooth wear cases because the material is long-lasting and durable with minimal chipping and fracture.” |
Dr Nadeem Younis |
This advanced structure of the TCD matrix helps to make restorations less prone to chipping and fracture, giving dentists greater confidence in their work and patients long-lasting results. Dr Nadeem Younis, President of the British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry and a practising dentist since 1993, supports this innovation: “I prefer to use Venus Pearl composite for tackling tooth wear cases because the material is long-lasting and durable with minimal chipping and fracture. The presence of TCD and a high monomer-to-polymer conversion rate renders the material strong in thin sections."
2. Reduced Shrinkage Stress
During the light-curing of composites, shrinkage stress is a common problem that can lead to marginal gaps and consequently secondary caries. The TCD matrix addresses this issue with its low shrinkage stress because its urethane molecules vibrate minimally, reducing stress and mitigating the risks associated with conventional composites. This helps restorations to remain secure and effective over time.
Dr Andreas Utterodt, Senior Scientist at Kulzer, explains: “The unique feature of TCD is the urethane molecule, which vibrates less and takes up less space than conventional matrix molecules. This minimal movement results in significant benefits such as low shrinkage stress, which helps to reduce the risk of marginal gap formation and secondary caries.”
“The unique feature of TCD is the urethane molecule, which vibrates less and takes up less space than conventional matrix molecules.” |
Dr Andreas Utterodt |
3. The TCD-matrix is free of BPA-related monomers
In today's dental environment, patients are increasingly concerned about the composition of the materials used in their treatment. The TCD matrix does not contain any BPA structure. Testing by an external laboratory has shown no BPA release above the detection limit from unpolymerized and polymerized Venus Pearl and Venus Diamond composites (source: test report 10-2023). This provides additional assurance of the safety and reliability of these materials.
4. Superior aesthetic results
Aesthetics play an important role in patient satisfaction. Patients want restorations that look natural and blend seamlessly into their existing teeth. While the TCD matrix primarily enhances structural integrity and durability, it also contributes to superior aesthetic results when used in products such as Venus Pearl Pure Shades. These materials allow for excellent shade matching and monochromatic restorations, helping restorations to look natural and beautiful with little efforts by the practitioner. This slim line of shades reduces the time required for complex shade selection and ensures pleasing results for patients.
In summary, Kulzer's TCD matrix offers a comprehensive solution to today's dental challenges by improving durability, reducing shrinkage stress, ensuring patient satisfaction and achieving aesthetic excellence. Incorporating this innovative material into your practice can lead to more efficient procedures, improved patient outcomes and higher levels of satisfaction for both dentists and patients.
Sources
*Heliomolar® and IPS® Empress Direct are trademarks of Ivoclar Vivadent AG ∙ N’Durance® is a trademark of Septodont, Inc. ∙ Clearfil® Majesty is a trademark of Kuraray Co., LTD. ∙ Filtek® Supreme Plus is a trademark of 3M Company ∙ Herculite® Ultra is a trademark of Kerr Corporation ∙ Esthet-X® HD is a trademark of Dentsply Sirona, Inc.
Manager Corporate Communications
Matthias Brehmke