LUBBOCK, Texas--A new orthodontic product line, SeLECT Defense, with implications for dramatically improved oral hygiene has been released by ClassOne Orthodontics to the Texas market and was scheduled for a worldwide launch in April 2009.
Product performance
SeLECT Defense technology is used in orthodontic treatment to coat brackets, ligature ties, and closing chain to help reduce plaque build-up and improve oral hygiene.
The patented formula is also mixed in with adhesives, cements, and sealants to prevent tooth decalcification or demineralization. SeLECT Defense products do not require the doctor to perform any special steps when applying to patients. They are used as standard orthodontic products.
"SeLECT Defense is the next big advance in orthodontic treatment," said Kenny Gallagher," president of ClassOne Orthodontics. "Research shows that parents and their children are concerned about oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. This product is going to virtually alleviate that concern."
In laboratory tests, SeLECT Defense technology has proven to reduce microbial development, commonly known as plaque, and eliminate the appearance of white spots. These spots can form during orthodontic treatment.
University of Texas Health Science Center Study
SeLECT Defense is a patented coating using a proprietary formula that is applied to orthodontic products used in braces. Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas, conducted a 28-day mouth simulation study of products with SeLECT Defense to determine the effectiveness of preventing microbial formation on teeth.
SeLECT Defense technology offered 100% prevention of the development of clinically visible white spot lesions around orthodontic brackets with elastomeric rings. Meanwhile, 40% chlorhexidine varnish, a commonly used coating, offered limited protection.
Microscopic examination of the teeth surfaces showed that SeLECT Defense technology reduced enamel demineralization (or white spot formation) around orthodontic brackets by 86% when the tooth is brushed twice daily and by 80% when the tooth is not brushed.
By comparison, the application of 40% chlorhexidine reduced demineralization only by 60% even when the teeth are brushed and by 66% without brushing. Furthermore, SeLECT Defense technology was not removed by tooth brushing within the period of the study.
Product development: Texas teamwork
In collaboration with ClassOne Orthodontics, the product line was developed and patented by researchers at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas, through licensing and co-development with Selenium, Ltd. The line is now marketed exclusively by ClassOne Orthodontics.
Regulation
ClassOne received FDA clearance in July 2008 to market SeLECT Defense.
Orthodontistsp articipation
In developing the product, ClassOne invited some of the country's orthodontists to take part in a SeLECT Society Advisory Committee to provide opinion and direction.
"As an orthodontist you are always looking for ways to improve the patient experience and outcome," said Dr. Robert "Tito" Norris, DDS, San Antonio, Texas. "I am very excited about the potential this product has to improve overall hygiene in my patients during orthodontic treatment."
SeLECT Defense preordering
ClassOne began taking preorders from orthodontists and dentists Jan. 15, 2009, with delivery of SeLECT Defense ligature ties, closing chain, brackets, adhesives, cements and sealants set to be available April 19.
About ClassOne Orthodontics
For more information about ClassOne Orthodontics, visit ClassOne Orthodontics.
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