Product Evaluation

DryShield Evaluation

The autoclavable DryShield maximizes efficiency and patient safety/comfort while eliminating the need for a host of costly and wasteful isolation tools.

When Dr. Samuel Yee began using the DryShield Dental Isolation System, he discovered he could eliminate the need for isolation tools such as rubber dams, and more importantly, increase productivity in his practice. "After using it, I realized I couldn't do without it," he said.

DryShield takes the place of high-suction evacuators, bite blocks, tongue shields, and oral pathway protectors while providing superior isolation and patient comfort. Using DryShield also reduces clinician fatigue and stress, and maximizes practice efficiency and productivity.

Yee, a California dentist, was among a team of 17 evaluators to share their experiences using DryShield for this Dental Product Shopper evaluation. "It's a valuable tool to make our lives simpler and less stressful," Dr. Yee reported. "[I liked] the ability to have an absolute dry field with excellent visibility—all without a chairside dental assistant!"

Control of the Oral Cavity

According to the manufacturer, DryShield combines superior isolation, visibility, and suctioning power in a single isolation solution, maximizing procedure efficiency and control. "Keeping areas dry and isolated with cotton is a challenge, but the DryShield does a remarkable job," said John Castillo, DDS. When asked what they liked best about DryShield, evaluators mentioned a range of qualities including its ability to isolate the tooth during composite procedures, its ability to control fluids, and the complete retraction of everything in the oral cavity. Dr. Jerome Tsang of Irvine, CA, shared, "I like that the product both isolates and keeps the working environment dry."

Patient Safety and Comfort

DryShield says their superior isolation and powerful suctioning capabilities ensure patient safety and comfort. "Patients routinely comment on how comfortable and secure they feel," reported Dr. Bruce Burley. Dr. Timothy Jordan said DryShield "protects a patient's oral cavity by isolating the work area. [The] fear of swallowing debris is solved." And Dr. Rick Ferguson shared, "There is a peace of mind that the airway is protected."

The soft, smooth, flexible silicone mouthpiece contours comfortably to patients' mouths and has multiple holes and passageways to efficiently direct air and water flow. "It really relieves stress on patients' jaws, controls the amount of water they ingest, and keeps things from going down the throat," said Dr. Greg Campbell, who recommended that the bite block be just a little softer. A range of bite block sizes allows the mouthpiece and bite block to be used interchangeably. The mouthpiece accommodates children and adults, and can even fit adults with limited openings and TMJ issues. Dr. Yee commented, "DryShield is extremely useful on elderly patients when their mandibles tremble and to prevent children from biting on the drill."

Efficiency and Productivity

DryShield maximizes efficiency and reduces procedure time, benefiting both clinicians and patients. Dr. Neal Vavra said DryShield makes treatment time faster and more productive. Dr. Ferguson agreed, saying, "We can finish restorative procedures faster." Another dentist said he noticed a big difference in treatment times, and Dr. Tsang called DryShield "an everyday workhorse in my practice."

The device reduces procedure time and frees up assistants to perform other tasks, according to the manufacturer. "The autoclavable feature made it financially possible to incorporate it into our practice for everyday use," shared Dr. Hae Sook Kim, who also said DryShield allows her to work faster and be more productive with her time. Another doctor said isolation increased and contamination rates decreased with DryShield. Several evaluators cited autoclavability as a reason for purchasing DryShield, and Dr. David Knopf remarked, "It's autoclavable, which reduces cost and the need to keep more inventory."

Ease of Use

The portable DryShield is easily installed in seconds by twisting off the existing HVE and twisting DS1 onto the existing hose. The mouthpiece is soft and flexible, and placement is comfortable for patients, according to the manufacturer. Several evaluators said DryShield's ease of use was its best feature, with comments that it is easy to set up and has an excellent design. Dr. Yee noted, "I was able to prep and finish an MOD composite on No. 29 on myself—without making a mess!"

"The company has very good customer support and allows a free trial of the product."
-Rick Ferguson, DMD
Davie, FL
 

Overall Satisfaction

Nearly all the evaluators rated their overall satisfaction with DryShield as excellent. "It's the best cost-efficient dental product out there for high-volume practices," reported Dr. Yoosung Suh, a pediatric dentist from Pennsylvania. Another doctor commented, "I'm a believer that you can't practice without this product." Haleh Bazargan, DDS, summed up her thoughts: "[With DryShield, you have] fast dentistry, greater patient acceptance, and your assistants will love you."

Takeaways

•Easy to use
•Protects patient and improves comfort
•Keeps working area dry and isolated
•Allows procedures to be performed faster