Why I Use...3M Filtek Matrix

I often recommended ceramic restorations to my restorative patients because it's easy for me to prepare their teeth, send the model to the lab, receive the final restoration, and deliver quality, esthetic results. However, when patients decline treatment, I always assumed it was due to financial constraints.

Since I started using the Filtek Matrix, I discovered a significant psychological barrier was also at play—the fear associated with me cutting down their teeth. The biggest advantage of the Filtek Matrix is that we don’t need to remove their healthy tooth structure at all. Patients love hearing this, and it has a greater impact than I ever would have imagined.

A Predictable, Efficient Workflow

While it's true that some dentists can do amazing composite veneers by hand, it requires an incredible commitment to a single procedure. The Filtek Matrix makes this once-tedious treatment more approachable for all dentists, especially those who aren't as familiar with it. At the end of the day, improving outcomes helps both dentists and patients.

The Filtek Matrix leverages a custom, digital design created through the 3M Oral Care Portal and allows you to transfer that design to the patient’s teeth using a 3D-printed injection mold vs freehand sculpting. The portal also handles the entire laboratory side of the treatment process, with minimal time and effort needed on our end before using the matrix on the patient. This makes our workflow much more predictable and efficient.

For example, using the Filtek Matrix has reduced the chair time in my office for 6-unit composite veneers by more than 50%, while also increasing overall satisfaction with the restorative results. I can use that time to do more procedures.

See for Yourself

I think that as we usher in this new era of conservatism in dentistry, the Filtek Matrix can alleviate any concerns about the quality of composite restorations or the time necessary to do them. I still meet dentists who are hesitant to try using the Filtek Matrix because it is a change to their workflow, and change can be intimidating.

Ultimately, I encourage them to try it and know that even on my worst day with the Filtek Matrix, it’s better than my best day sculpting these restorations by hand. It does exactly what it aims to do, and I can place and use it with confidence knowing that it's backed by Solventum's commitment to quality across its comprehensive product portfolio.