3m Espe Sof-Lex Finishing Strips - Refills

• Designed with ease for use and to smooth proximal surfaces
• Unique narrow strip is available for easier use in short interproximal areas
• Strips are gapped at their centers for easy interproximal insertion
• Precision-coated with an aluminum-oxide grit to produce a smooth restoration surface that helps prevent interproximal plaque buildup

Size: Coarse/medium-narrow strips (7" x 5/64")

• Overall Length (Imperial): 7in
• Overall Length (Metric): 177.8mm

Size: Coarse/medium strips (7" x 5/32")    

• Overall Width (Imperial): 0.156 in, 0.078 in
• Overall Width (Metric): 3.962 mm, 1.981 mm 

Coarse/Medium

• 150 x Finishing Strips

Coarse/Medium—Narrow

• 100 x Finishing Strips

Fine/Superfine

• 120 x Finishing Strips

• Select the Appropriate Strip: Choose the Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strip with the suitable grit for your specific finishing and polishing needs. The color-coded system makes it easy to identify the correct strip.
• Prepare the Restoration: Ensure that the dental restoration is appropriately contoured and shaped before beginning the finishing and polishing process.
• Interproximal Insertion: Hold the Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strip by its ends. The center-gapped design allows for easy insertion into interproximal spaces. Gently insert the strip into the desired area, ensuring that it sits comfortably between adjacent teeth.
• Positioning and Pressure: Position the strip along the restoration surface, taking care not to apply excessive pressure. The thin and flexible backing allows you to work close to the gingival margin and tight contacts.
• Polishing Motion: Move the strip back and forth in a controlled, gentle polishing motion. The precision-coated aluminum-oxide grit will gradually smooth and polish the restoration surface.
• Adjusting Pressure: Depending on the area being worked on, you can adjust the pressure applied to achieve the desired level of polishing. Avoid excessive pressure that might damage the restoration or surrounding tissues.
• Interproximal Cleaning: While polishing, the strip also helps prevent interproximal plaque buildup. This is especially important for maintaining oral hygiene.
• Dual Grits: Some Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strips feature dual grits on the same strip. You can start with a coarser grit for initial contouring and switch to a finer grit for final polishing. This simplifies the process by reducing the number of steps.
• Evaluate and Repeat: Periodically evaluate the restoration surface to assess the level of smoothness and polish achieved. If necessary, repeat the polishing process until the desired results are achieved.
• Final Inspection: Once you are satisfied with the polishing results, thoroughly inspect the restoration to ensure it meets your aesthetic and functional standards.
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse the restoration area to remove any residual grit particles. Dry the area carefully to inspect the polished surface accurately.
• Review and Adjust: Review the patient's occlusion and bite to ensure that the restoration functions harmoniously within the oral cavity.

• Country Of Origin: United States of America
• Manufacturer: 3M ESPE

• A warranty is not applicable for this product.

Question : What are the available sizes for Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strips - Refills?
Answer: The available size options include Coarse/Medium-Narrow strips with an overall length of 7 inches and Coarse/Medium strips with an overall width of 5/64 inches and 5/32 inches, respectively. The sizes are also provided in metric measurements.

Question : How many abrasive grits are included in each Sof-Lex™ Strip?
Answer: Sof-Lex™ Strips incorporate dual abrasive grits per strip. This streamlines the finishing and polishing process, reducing the number of steps required to achieve optimal results.

Question : What is the significance of the precision-coated aluminum-oxide grit on these strips?
Answer: The specialized grit on Sof-Lex™ Strips is chosen for its superior performance in producing a smooth and polished surface on dental restorations. This helps prevent the buildup of interproximal plaque, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and oral health.
Question : Can Sof-Lex™ Strips be used in tight interproximal contacts and close to the gingival margin?
Answer: Yes, the thin and flexible backing of Sof-Lex™ Strips allows for safe use in areas close to the gingival margin and in cases with tight interproximal contacts.

Question : What is the advantage of the center-gapped construction of Sof-Lex™ Strips?
Answer: The center-gapped design of Sof-Lex™ Strips makes it easier to insert them into interproximal areas. It ensures convenient application and contributes to precise and consistent results.

Question : How do I choose the right Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strip for my dental procedure?
Answer: The Sof-Lex™ system utilizes a color-coding scheme to help you identify the appropriate strip for your specific task. The color-coding simplifies the selection process.

Question : What are 3M™ ESPE Sof-Lex™ Finishing Strips used for?
Answer: These finishing strips are primarily used for polishing various dental restorations, including composite, compomer, metal, and ceramic materials. They are also designed for interproximal areas.