Proper finishing of restorations is desirable not only for aesthetic considerations but also for oral health. The primary goal of finishing is to obtain a restoration which has ideal contour, occlusion, healthy embrasure forms, and surface smoothness.
Finishing and polishing procedures remove the air-inhibited layer, contour and shape the restoration, create surface characterisation and produce surfaces with high gloss. Tight margins should blend aesthetically into the tooth’s natural contours. Healthy embrasure forms and smooth surfaces are less likely to trap food debris and collect plaque.
Several factors can affect the final finish of a restoration: the resin matrix and fillers within the restorative material, finishing instruments, and preparation design.
The 3M™ ESPE™ Sof-Lex™ Diamond Polishing System is a two-step, multi-use polishing system. The spirals use the same mandrel as 3M™ ESPE™ Sof-Lex™ Finishing and Polishing Discs. The spirals are made with either aluminium oxide or diamond particles impregnated in a thermoplastic elastomer.
The universal shape allows for usage on all tooth surfaces and reduces the need for different shaped tools. It adapts to all tooth surfaces, works from any angle, effective for anterior and posterior restorations, and helps create natural gloss in two steps.
The 3M ESPE Sof-Lex Pre-Polishing Spiral (beige) is indicated to smooth the surface of restorations. The 3M ESPE Sof-Lex Diamond Polishing Spiral (pink) is indicated for final high-gloss polishing.
Spirals can be used to polish surfaces of:
Direct:
- Composite restorations
- Resin-modified glass ionomers
- Bisacrylic temporary materials
Indirect:
- Composite
- 3M™ ESPE™ Lava™ Ultimate CAD/CAM Restorative
- Precious and semi-precious metal
Both wheels are used with a slow-speed handpiece operating within 15,000rpm–20,000rpm. Adding water is recommended during use and will create a more ideal surface quicker than without water.