The Alfa Triple Tray by Premier allows you to take an upper and lower impression at the same time. It’s an expansion of the idea of the quadrant triple tray that has become so popular for crown and bridge impressions. Designed by Dr. Jim DiMarino for taking alginate impressions, it not only saves chair time, but it reportedly reduces the gag reflex.
With a palate-free design, the Alfa Triple Tray allows the patient’s tongue to position itself to keep the material from flowing down the throat. By keeping the tongue in a more natural position, Dental Economics editor Dr. Joe Blaes claims that it actually eliminates gagging (see “Pearls” in Dental Economics, June, 2003).
Here’s the technique. Mix the alginate and load both the upper and lower at the same time. Place the loaded tray in the mouth and instruct the patient to close. With the patient closed on the tray, it isn’t necessary to hold it. Wait until the alginate is set, and remove it in the usual manner. You now have an impression of both upper and lower arches.
You can buy the trays packaged with a trial pack on the outside so that you can try the trays before you open the entire package–a nice idea to help you see if you like them. They’re made in three sizes: small, medium and large, and can be purchased through your dealer.
The first use that comes to mind is for taking impressions for bleaching trays. Using a fast-setting stone, you can have custom bleaching trays ready for the patient in minimal time.
Besides alginate impression material, you may want to try the new alginate alternative vinyl polysiloxane impression materials such as Status Blue by Zenith/DMG or Position Penta by 3M Espe.
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