In our last post, we showed you some easy ways to handle both Tetric plus Fill and Tetric plus Flow. Tetric plus Flow stands out for its exceptional thixotropic properties: It allows controlled and precise application while providing excellent flow characteristics when required. Using the correct cannula is essential for easy placement. In essence, Tetric plus Flow combines the application areas of Tetric EvoFlow and Tetric PowerFlow in one single material.
In this post, we share more tips on how to get the most out of Tetric plus Flow – especially in anterior restorations and when used together with Tetric plus Fill.
Tip #1: Modelling liquid? Tetric plus Flow does the job!
Do you do this too? We use modelling liquid to prevent the instrument from sticking to the composite surface and generally improve the material’s contouring behaviour. Our experts tested Tetric plus Flow as modelling aid for contouring Tetric plus Fill on the labial surfaces of anterior teeth and have found that it works really well.
Application is easy: While OptraSculpt Pad has non-stick properties, adding a drop of Tetric plus Flow on the OptraSculpt Pad helps you shape and smooth labial surfaces with ease. For a smooth, esthetic finish.
Practical tip:
Adding a small drop of Tetric plus Flow to OptraSculpt Pad facilitates the precise contouring of Tetric plus Fill, helping you create extra smooth transitions on the labial surface.
Tip #2: Smooth out small imperfections
It happens even to the best of us: You are working on a Class IV restoration or a direct veneer on an anterior tooth, and after polishing, a tiny imperfection appears on the labial surface. Now what?
The solution is straightforward: Simply use Tetric plus Flow in the same shade to correct these small imperfections exactly where they appear. If repairing after polishing, we recommend lightly roughening the surface first, then cleaning, etching and applying an adhesive before using Tetric plus Flow. After polishing again with OptraGloss, you will see a smooth, shiny surface that will be nearly indistinguishable from the original Tetric plus Fill restoration. Once cured, Tetric plus Flow exhibits very similar surface characteristics to Tetric plus Fill.
Practical tip:
Use Tetric plus Flow to repair minor surface imperfections.
Tip #3: Targeted adjustments to volume and transitions
When restoring a Class V defect, closing a diastema or layering up an anterior veneer with Tetric plus, you may sometimes notice uneven transition lines between the labial surface and the incisal edge or proximal surface. Sometimes, the labio-palatal volume appears insufficient.
We recommend using Tetric plus Flow to achieve the desired contours and volume. For the most esthetic results, it is best to use OptraSculpt Pad and a composite brush for precise contouring.
Practical tip:
If you need to adjust transition lines or volume in anterior restorations, use Tetric plus Flow together with a suitable instrument.
We hope you found them useful.