3M ESPE Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative introduced in UAE

This composite is one of the leading universal dental restoratives in the world, and is made from 3M's patented nanotechnology that combines the strength of a hybrid with the beauty of a microfill, meaning filler particles can be tailored to yield both the excellent aesthetic properties required for single and multi-layer anterior restorations, while retaining the strength and wear characteristics needed for posterior restorations.

Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative offers low polymerization shrinkage with less stress on the tooth and less sensitivity potential for patients. The combination of nanomer sized particles to the nanocluster formulations reduces the interstitial spacing of the filler particles. This allows for increased filler loading, better physical properties and improved polish retention when compared to composites containing only nanoclusters.

Moreover, high wear resistance allows for longer-lasting results, core build-ups and splinting and indirect restorations including inlays, onlays and veneers, which has exceptional flow with ideal slump resistance.

The introduction of the 3M Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative comes after two years of 3M research in collaboration with clinicians, to optimize the shading system. The result is a successful restorative that can provide a range of shades and opacities, excellent polish retention, and the universal indications of the nanocomposite. 3M ESPE Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative makes excellent aesthetic results even easier to obtain.

Rodrigue Rizk, Business Development Manager 3M, commented:

"Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative represents our dedication to driving the potential of dental composites following years of research. What makes the Filtek Z350 restorative even more practical for dentists is the fact that those new to the product will find it easier to transition from their previous composite. With 3M ESPE Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative, aesthetic results are both better and easier to obtain."

The Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative is available in eight of the most popular shades corresponding to the optimized shades of Filtek Supreme XT Universal Restorative. Consequently, Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative may be used with Filtek Supreme XT Universal Restorative to expand its versatility in the creation of multi-shade/multi-opacity restorations.

Rizk explained:

"Data compiled from field tests, comprehensive interviews and benchmark testing with existing products has been used to establish what we have defined as 'dentist-preferred colour space'."

"Each of 3M ESPE's individual shades are located within the boundaries of the dentist-preferred colour space, yielding two critical, clinically-documented benefits of optimized shade offering and physical properties," Rizk added.

Shading and opacity has been optimized for single layer techniques and one higher opacity shade, Universal Dentin, is included for cases where masking is needed. For physical properties, the patented technology used in Filtek Supreme XT Universal Restorative enables the product to achieve excellent polish retention as well as the superior handling, strength and wear properties required for universal indications.

Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative has also proven to have the strength of a hybrid. Its high-filler loading and advanced resin matrix result in strength measurements (compressive, flexural and diametral strength and fracture toughness) that compare to the best products in the industry.

Since the nanocluster filler particles consist of loosely bound agglomerates of nano-sized filler particles, during abrasion, the primary particles (nanomer-sized) not the clusters themselves, can be worn away during wear conditions, rather than be plucked out. Thus, a smoother finish and higher gloss is retained over time.

Indications for Use:

3M ESPE Filtek Z350 Universal Restorative is indicated for use in the following types of restorations:
• Direct anterior and posterior restorations.
• Sandwich technique with glass ionomer resin material.
• Cusp buildup.
• Core buildup.
• Splinting.
• Indirect anterior and posterior restorations including inlays, onlays and veneers.