The Concept
Injection moulding allows us to create rapid, meaningful smile transformation — whether that’s a single tooth, a full arch, or both arches — in a single patient appointment.
Digitally, the workflow is straightforward:
• Scan
• Fabricate two clear matrices
• Deliver
For those working analog, you’re in this game too:
• Physical impression
• Diagnostic wax-up
• Fabricate the same two-matrix system
Different inputs. Same powerful output.
The Process
Let’s walk through a real patient case.
Our patient presented with failing composites and significant wear. Time and budget were important. Yes, ceramics are in his future. But today’s goal was immediate improvement with a phased long-term plan.
Practice Day
As with every comprehensive case, we gathered:
- Full-arch scans
- Clinical photography
- Oral cancer screening
- Periodontal evaluation
- Occlusal analysis
- Complete dentition exam
Thorough diagnostics simplify everything that follows.
(Utilized: Trios 5, Nikon DSLR)
Lab Day
All assets were sent to the lab with a detailed prescription. The more specific we are, the easier restoration day becomes.
Note:
This entire process can be performed in-house if you have:
• Advanced design software
• 3D printing capability
• Efficient internal systems
We fabricate our injection matrices in-house. It’s simple, efficient, and cost-effective to train your team to do this
(Utilized: Exocad, SprintRay)
Matrix Fabrication
Two models. Two matrices
Matrix One: Final restored case.
Matrix Two: Using Exocad, we digitally “unplug” every other definitive restoration. This intermediary design allows each tooth toremain individual during injection.
Both matrices are fabricated using clear disposable stock trays (a metal tray is acceptable, but I prefer clear for visualization of seating).
One key refinement:
I strongly recommend placing a light-body wash along the gingival margins only. This significantly improves matrix accuracy and fit while still allowing curing through the matrix.
(Utilized: Ivoclar Clear PVS and Virtual XD light body wash)
Precision here eliminates adjustment later.
Game Day
We treated teeth #6–11. The patient had existing crowns in the UR quadrant and an implant at #12.
Clinical Steps:
- Try-in both matrices to verify fit and retention.
- No prep required — lightly roughen enamel to optimize adhesion.
- Isolate alternating teeth with Teflon tape to control bonding field.
- Perforate the clear matrix using a Tetric EvoFlow tip (leave the tip in place; ensure no PVS remains in the cannula).
- Repeat perforation for each tooth in the matrix.
- Etch enamel with phosphoric acid for 15 seconds.
- Rinse, apply Adhese Universal (20-second scrub, air thin, cure).
- Seat matrix and inject Tetric EvoFlow into each designated tooth. Cure 10 seconds per tooth. Continue until each tooth receives 40 seconds of total cure.
- Remove matrix, re-cure, and refine contour as needed — adjustments should be minimal with ideal planning. (Ivoclar PowerCure)
- Remove Teflon, re-isolate restored teeth, and repeat process for remaining teeth.
- Final contour and polish. (Microcopy fine diamonds, Ivoclar Optragloss)
When diagnostics, design, and matrix fabrication are executed properly, finishing is minimal.
The Wins
Time is our most valuable commodity.
Injection moulding leverages:
-
Digital diagnostics
-
Laboratory precision
-
Team efficiency
-
Predictable adhesive dentistry
It can be applied to:
-
A single tooth
-
Multiple anteriors
-
Full-arch cases
-
Phased rehabilitation
The principles remain the same. The scalability is what makes it powerful. Patients receive immediate transformation. You gain efficiency and predictability. And you create a structured path toward larger restorative plans.
If you’d like to explore materials and workflow in more detail, follow @ivoclar.na on Instagram or visit Ivoclar Academy.
Receive our monthly newsletter on recently published blog articles, upcoming education programs and exciting new product campaigns!