by Dr Tara Cowie, Hyalite Dental Surgery, Larrakeyah, NT
This is a simple inter-proximal polishing device that’s relatively cheap and very effective.
What’s good about it
The Intensiv ProxoPolish is a diamond-coated metal strip that comes in two grit sizes. When I have a contact that is quite tight or that has a bit of bond, I often find the Mylar polishing strips are unable to get through. They will break or bend or distort and become impossible to use. Obviously I’m not going to force it through and cause the patient discomfort. The ProxoPolish is made of such thin metal that it consistently goes straight through the contact without ever distorting.
The first time I used them was when they were dropped off at the practice as a sample. I immediately liked the way they worked and ordered a couple pf boxes. I don’t use them every day but when I want to get through a tight contact quickly and easily, it’s great to have them on hand.
I still use the Mylar version but it’s nice to have an alternative when they’re not working. In fact, I think the ProxoPolish strips are probably more comfortable for patients as less vertical force is required to get through the contact. In most cases, they pass through immediately.
They are also very easy to hold due to a large finger grip at either end. We’ve nicknamed them ‘Banjos’ because they look like tiny banjos.
What’s not so good
It’s a simple tool that’s well designed and effective. It’s hard to see a way they could be improved.
Where did you get it
David Quinn, Dental Consumable Consultant, 0433 321 669, davidquinn58@gmail.com.
