Peer to Peer: RE-GEN Universal Adhesive

It is hard to argue with the 50+ years of medical use and clinical studies indicating the effi cacy of Bioglass, the key ingredient in Vista Apex’s RE-GEN Universal Adhesive. For John Kanca III, DMD, who has consistently been at the forefront of products that simplify and streamline adhesive dentistry, the proof is in his practice. Learn how he uses RE-GEN Universal Adhesive to obtain predictable results, as well as his overall observations on what makes the adhesive remarkably unique.

Bioactivity has become a popular buzzword by manufacturers in the dental world. However, bona fi de bioactivity reaching its maximum effective potential was yet to be achieved—that is, until Vista Apex’s RE-GEN Universal Adhesive.

For true bioactivity to occur, a constant release of calcium, phosphate, and fluoride is required, which induces the in vivo restoration process that forms hydroxyapatite. While most adhesive products have 1 or 2 of these materials, RE-GEN Universal Adhesive incorporates all 3. But ultimately, what sets it apart is its unique formula that employs Bioglass.

Bioactivity and Caries Resistance

The Bioglass particles create conditions in oral fluids that attract stem cells to the tooth’s surface, promoting and catalyzing osteogenesis. Once enamel and dentin have been etched and cleaned, RE-GEN Universal Adhesive can be applied as a bonding agent for direct and indirect restorative procedures.

Its alkaline nature also creates an ideal milieu for resisting bacterial attraction and neutralizing acid erosion. This aids with current regenerative efforts and helps prevent secondary caries during and after the healing process. I can also guarantee that this adhesive eliminates postop sensitivity for patients, too.

Targeted Treatment

I believe that for an absolutely bulletproof method of bonding, several Vista Apex restorative solutions, including the RE-GEN Universal Adhesive, offer the potential to achieve results that no other products can provide. You can start off using Vista Apex's Clean & Boost or Velvet Etch, which go on like creams and rinse off with only a 5-second water stream. The tooth is then dried. Using a micro-applicator, I apply a coat of DesensiMAX, a desensitizing solution that rewets the tooth surface, shuts down MMPs, and ensures optimal moisture levels for bonding.

This is followed by a coat of RE-GEN Universal Adhesive, thoroughly drying it, applying 2 more coats, and drying again. Then, it is light-activated for 3 seconds using the Vista Apex PinkWave curing light. When used in tandem with the RE-GEN Flowable Composite Liner, this step-by-step guide is the key to unlocking the adhesive’s complete bioactive benefits.

RE-GEN Universal is honestly one of the most exciting products in the world of dental adhesives. I’ve been at the forefront of many advancements in restorative dentistry, but this may be the best one yet.