Review: The benefits of the Trifecta Method by 3M ESPE

Dr. Chad Duplantis discusses why this method works for his practice, and why it might work for yours as well.

I’ll admit right off the bat that I’m a longtime 3M ESPE user and recently served on the 3M ESPE Council for Innovative Dentistry. I can also say that I want what’s best for my patients and my practice, and that is why I use the Trifecta Method. My restorative and cosmetic practice has been digital since 2004.

Formerly a CEREC user, I am now a 3M™ True Definition and E4D user.

I’ve been using products from the Trifecta Method for about nine months and it’s just one manufacturer for the whole process - the Lava™ Ultimate Restorative, the Scotch Bond™ Universal Adhesive and the RelyX™ Ultimate Adhesive Resin Cement.

What are some of the Trifecta Method’s best benefits?

There’s always been a fear with the traditional RelyX cement of discoloration under certain restorations and that it’s not indicated for all restorations. With RelyX Ultimate cement there is not that fear. I feel that everything is completely sealed and I feel real confident using the product.

When it comes to sensitivity, the studies from 3M ESPE said 96% of patients have virtually no sensitivity. Knock on wood, but I have had ultimate success without sensitivity. There have been cases that I’ve total etched and they still have not been sensitive. That’s been a huge plus as far as I’m concerned.

A really nice benefit from 3M ESPE is that they have an open door policy and an incredible clinical support staff.  I can pick up the phone and actually speak to one of the scientists that was involved with implementing the product and work through any issues. I don’t feel that there are other companies out there that I can communicate with the way I do with 3M ESPE.

Why would you encourage other clinicians to use the Trifecta Method?

Because of the literature out there on the bond strength, overall quality of the restoration, ease of milling of the Lava Ultimate blocks, and the reputation of the manufacturer. If you’re going to provide the best restorations you should go with the industry leader.

I try and use my products consistently across the board. I have an issue with using different manufacturers’ products together; how they mingle together and how the chemistry cooperates has always been a concern of mine. I may have an old school mentality when it comes to bonding, but I feel that selectively etching and using a priming/bonding agent in addition to the cement is going to give you a better result every time. I receive additional security knowing that the products were designed by one manufacturer to use together.

Although I have had great results using traditional RelyX Unicem without a bonding agent, I don’t mind the additional steps associated with the Trifecta Method. Until I have a reason to change, I will continue to utilize this method for all of my indirect bonded restorations.

Check out this live-patient demonstration of a dental crown procedure using the 3M True Definition Scanner and the Trifecta Restorative Method.