Your Most Important Resolution: Mastering the IFU
A new year often brings a fresh start and new resolutions. For the dental community, there is one resolution that can instantly improve clinical outcomes: reading the Instructions for Use (IFU).
In episode 37 of the Bonding and Beer podcast, Rolando Nuñez discussed why the IFU is the "rule of law" in the dental office. While these documents can seem long, they are the key to safety, efficiency, and predictable results.
If you use a BISCO product and need an IFU, we maintain a comprehensive online index of IFUs here.
How do IFUs improve clinical outcomes?
Every BISCO product is developed with a specific, optimized protocol in mind. When the manufacturer specifies a 10-second scrub time or a precise air-drying technique, it’s based on rigorous laboratory testing. Following the IFU provides several critical benefits:
- Predictable Results: Achieve the highest bond strengths intended by the manufacturer.
- Reduced Failures: Proper application mitigates the risk of immediate clinical failure.
- Standardized Care: Consistent protocols streamline workflow for you and your team.
- Risk Management: Adhering to the instructions lowers the risk of undesirable outcomes.
Ro Tip: Just because a product has the same generic descriptor as another product, it doesn’t mean they work the same. Always read the IFU whenever using a new product.
Are All “Universal” Dental Adhesives the Same?
It’s easy to assume that all products in the same category behave the same way. But “Universal” is a category, not a technique. A universal adhesive from one brand may require a completely different moisture level or curing time than another.
For example, ALL-BOND UNIVERSAL® features sophisticated chemistry designed to excel in total-etch, self-etch, and selective-etch modes. Each formula responds to specific handling, and treating every adhesive the same way can lead to inconsistent outcomes. Learn more about how All-Bond Universal® delivers predictable results in this award-winning Dental Product Shopper evaluation.
Ro Tip: Z-Prime Plus and ZirClean demonstrate why reading the IFU is essential. Instructions vary depending on the product you use.
Navigating Different Paths to Success: Bonding to Zirconia
Sometimes, the same company offers multiple paths to achieve the same clinical goal. Bonding to zirconia is a perfect example.
1.The Z-PRIME™ Plus Path:
- Sandblast the restoration.
- Apply Z-PRIME Plus immediately.
- Try the restoration in the mouth. If saliva contaminates the surface, the MDP-containing primer has already reacted with the zirconia.
- Rinse with water and proceed.
2. The ZirClean® Path:
- Sandblast and try in the restoration.
- Due to contamination, use ZirClean extraorally on the substrate for 20 seconds, and rinse to remove phosphate residues before applying the primer.
Both methods are correct, but each follow a different IFU. Clinical success depends on following your chosen protocol exactly.
How to Scan an IFU in Seconds
In episode 37, Ro joked that BISCO IFUs are “the size of a bed sheet.” Don’t worry—you don’t always need to read every line. Here’s how to quickly find the essentials:
- Generic Descriptor: Check the material type under the product name.
- Indications For Use: Review what the product is specifically intended for. This helps confirm you’re selecting the right material for your procedure.
- Storage Requirements: Verify temperature range (e.g., All-Bond Universal is stable between 36 °F and 77 °F).
- Step-by-Step Sections: In most BISCO IFUs, instructional steps are organized by indication (e.g., Direct vs. Indirect procedures). Locate the section that matches your current case.
- Technical Times: Look for working time, setting time, and light-cure instructions.
Your Solution for Clinical Excellence
Reading and following the IFU is the simplest way to ensure last and perform predictably. If you prefer visual learning, BISCO offers educational resources on our website. For more complex questions, the Ask the Experts page allows you to search popular questions or ask your own question online. These resources are always based on the current IFU to keep your practice safe and effective.