Consultants’ Comments

• “Easy to use – curved handle allows good visibility.”
• “The foam insert is easy to use and holds the cold spray for a long time.”
• “It’s nice having the cold and bite tests in one instrument.”
• “Make the foam insert stiffer.”
• “Make the handle autoclavable.”
• “Provide larger quantities of foam inserts.”

Description

e-Dx is a diagnostic instrument used to test teeth for fracture and sensitivity to cold. One end of the blue plastic instrument is shaped for bite testing. The opposite end holds pliers with a foam insert to test for cold sensitivity. Refrigerant (not supplied) is sprayed on the foam then applied to the tooth. The kit contains three e-Dx handles, 36 plier tips and 36 foam inserts. The instrument can be cold sterilized. e-Dx was evaluated by 16 consultants in 223 uses. It received an 86% clinical rating.

Product Features

e-Dx is a simple product that is effective for testing multiple teeth. When refrigerant is sprayed on a foam insert, it remains cold for a sufficiently long time. The size of the foam insert is large, making it hard to isolate a specific area and avoid touching the gingival tissue. Its flexibility causes it to bend over when any pressure is applied to the tooth. The bite stick has a depression to cradle a cusp tip and help prevent the instrument from slipping. Eighty-eight percent of consultants reported that e-Dx was equivalent to or better than their current diagnostic instruments; 38% would switch to it and 56% would recommend e-Dx to their colleagues.

Clinical Tips

• Cut the foam tip to make a point for fossa.
• e-Dx is not autoclavable; use cold sterilization solution.
• Use an acrylic bur to broaden the cusp depression in the bite stick for teeth with wear or flat anatomy.