Some of the most creative ideas in dentistry come from dentists themselves. Today's post is about one of those creative solutions. The Inflatrix is a matrix system that actually inflates, similar to a balloon, to provide precise contours and contacts.
The device was invented by Dr. Mark Thoresen a general dentist in Wyoming. One night he was watching the James Bond film GoldenEye, where Q is demonstrating gadgets to Bond. In the background, a Q Branch employee enters a phone booth which is suddenly filled by a giant airbag, trapping the man inside. At that moment the idea for Infltrix was conceived. The first sketch of a prototype device was completed an hour later.
The device is a small, thin, polymer 'pillow' that is placed between the teeth. It connects to a one-way valve and a syringe filled with water. The syringe plunger is depressed and the water inflates the pillow to seal Inflatrix against the tooth and provide the proper anatomic contour against which the filling will be placed. The polymer is much more gentle on the gingival tissues than metal bands that are frequently used in these situations.
Dr. Thoresen has worked on both sides of the dental industry, both in private practice as well as dental sales. He's worked in the industry selling lasers, instruments, magnification, and also trains dental assistants. This has allowed him to see the industry from both sides, which gives him a good perspective on the dental market as a whole.
Inflatrix is twice-patented, trademarked, and is an FDA 501 (k) exempt device that has been in development for several years. Dr. Thoresen has methodically worked on the Inflatrix, running it through several generations with beta testers to improve the use and functionality of the device.
Recently Dr. Thoresen entered Inflatrix into the Energy Capital Startup Challenge and was selected as a winner, receiving a share of the $50k prize awarded. This influx of capital is helping to spur further product development.
The device is not yet on the market, but it's a pretty smart idea that I wanted to make readers aware of. As Dr. Thoresen prepares Inflatrix for sales and distribution, I'll be sure to keep you updated on when you'll be able to purchase.
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