How does Palfique Estelite differ from other composites?

Composites are categorized by “classes” depending on filler size such as Hybrids, Micro-Hybrids and Microfils. “In a class by itself”, Palfique Estelite continues to stand alone. Tokuyama’s patented technology paved the way for Palfique Estelite’s conception, becoming and remaining the world’s first and only 100% spherically filled composite, 82% filled by weight and 71% by volume.

Every composite has two components; resin which is the polymerization monomer and filler which is the polymerization initiator. The filler is the foundation that gives the composite its physical properties; i.e. handling, polishability, translucency, wear, shade matching ability, surface smoothness and glossiness. The filler on its own is a complex beast that is difficult for most to understand and best left to the experts. However, here is a brief explanation as to the structure of Palfique Estelite and what has made it such a truly remarkable product.

How the filler is made gives the composite a personality unique to itself and like snowflakes, no two composites are alike. However, composites do have certain commonalities, such as filler and particle distribution and we will address them both.

Palfique Estelite’s spherical filler is exclusively manufactured by Tokuyama for this unique composite using a production technique known as the sol-gel method. This process allows the complete control not only of the filler size and shape, but the refractive index and radiopacity as well. Palfique Estelite’s filler consists of pre-polymerized composite filler (CF), sub-micron spherical particles and Microfil type composite resin (CR). The CF, with a size distribution of 1~80 microns, is also reinforced with sub-micron spherical particles. The combination of CF and 0.2 microns spherical particles aid in achieving high filler content, low poly-merization shrinkage and excellent handling.

The size, shape and particle distribution vary in all composites. Palfique Estelite is spherical in shape and 0.2 microns in size. Filler size is a common term but particle distribution may not be quite so familiar and will differ among composites. Today’s composites have a particle distribution ranging from 0.01~3.5 microns to 0.04~100 microns (i.e. Heliomolar). Researchers will tell you that particle distribution is a key component of the composite’s integrity. The larger the particle distribution the greater the chance of “plucking”, after only 3 to 4 years. This ultimately results in the breakdown of the composite, namely at the margins where decay most likely will occur. Most will agree that with today’s technology, this is unacceptable after such a short period of time.

Palfique Estelite’s particle distribution range does not influence the physical properties of the composite, especially wear. As mentioned above, the pre-polymerized composite resin is reinforced with 0.2 microns spherical particles, which are crushed and treated. This process promotes unification with the resin after polymerization, allowing Palfique Estelite to eliminate ”plucking” and maintain its marginal integrity as well.

Additional information on this product is available from J. Morita USA by calling (888) JMORITA (566-7482).