TALLADIUM U.K. On-line CPD Tutorials
www.talladiumuk.co.uk Unit 37B, New Road, Langley, Berks SL3 8JJ
Tel: 01753 582 788 TECHNIQUE FOR ADDING A PRE-FORMED CLASP (FLEXITE CLASP-EZE) The need for a quick means to add an aesthetic clasp is apparent in today’s society. Television has broadened our sensitivity to appearances and increased the demand for aesthetics. Many patients object to unsightly metal clasps but have to accept them because they cannot afford the high cost of fixed bridges. Prefabricated clasps may be the answer. Injection moulded plastics are unique and far superior to conventional acrylics. They have greater flexural and tensile strength and are now available for clasps and partials. The clasp demonstrated is a Flexite Supreme nylon co-polymer thermoplastic which we call Flexite Clasp-Eze.
the size of the tooth. e.g.: The first tail piece would be cut off if the circumference of the tooth was bigger than normal and the second tail piece would be used.
FIGURE 3
FIGURE I
Fig. 1 illustrates a lower stripped saddle with a broken roach clasp. It may not be necessary to strip an entire saddle, just a single tooth on some repairs. FIGURE 2
Heat clasp by brushing up and back until the clasp begins to soften and goes limp. A good tip is to hold it against the flat side of the bench so the flow of air is concentrated and not lost. When flaming, use top of bench as usual. When softened, place tip into interproximal and bend toward distal. Tack tail section with wax so a plaster or stone matrix can be made on buccal. This will free up your other hand for positioning the tail piece section. FIGURE 4
Required Components Pre-formed clasp e.g. ClaspEze, Aron Alpha (bonding agent for nylon), Heat source (Electric heat gun or bunsen burner, self cure acrylic powder (Flexite Rapid Set), self cure monomer and two dappen dishes. Note: Clasps are made in one size. The tail pieces are spaced at different intervals and are utilized according to
A clear prefabricated clasp was selected for this demonstration. (Tooth colour clasps are also available.) The Flexite heat gun is modified to soften the nylon clasp without blistering. A small flame may be used but requires more caution.
Cut off the part of the clasp you are not using. Dovetail, shape and taper clasp. A properly tapered clasp will never lose memory and enhances retention.