Consultants’ Comments

• “The manufacturer’s directions were concise and complete.”
• “I liked the size, rigidity and translucency of the fibers.”
• “It was quick and easy to use for the fabrication of a temporary bridge.”
• “It was easy to cut, adapt, and polish.”
• “The length and width of the fibers were more than adequate.”
• “If the individual strands separate, placement is more difficult.”

Description

GrandTEC is an individually packaged resin-impregnated glass fiber strip. It is indicated for orthodontic retention, stabilization of mobile teeth, support of traumatized teeth, reinforcement of provisional bridges, and for temporary bonded pontics after extraction or during implant osseointegration. Each strip is 2 mm x 55 mm and is individually packaged in a foil packet. The strip can be adapted directly on the teeth or on a model. Flowable or sculptable composite may be used in conjunction with GrandTEC. It cures when exposed to a conventional LED or halogen curing light. The kit contains five glass fiber strips, instructional CD, and manufacturer’s instructions. GrandTEC was evaluated by 21 consultants in 98 uses. The product received an 88% clinical rating.

Product Features

Having the fiber strip pre-wet with resin eliminates a step chairside and makes GrandTEC quick and easy to use. Consultants liked the size and translucency of the fibers. GrandTEC is easiest to cut with sharp, thin scissors when it is left on the foil package. The strip is flexible enough to adapt to the teeth for a variety of applications. Storage of the flat packets is compact, and refrigeration is not required. Fifty-seven percent of consultants reported that GrandTEC was better than their current sectional matrix system and 29% reported that it was equivalent. Sixty-two percent would switch to GrandTEC and 81% would recommend it.

Clinical Tips

• Handle the strip with forceps to avoid contaminating the fibers during manipulation.

• To avoid fraying of the fibers, leave the strip on the foil while cutting it to length.

• Measure the span carefully and pre-cut the fibers with sharp suture scissors.

• GrandTEC must be covered with a layer of composite for all applications.