Thermoforming Machine Lab Technique - ERKOFORM-3 with Occluform-3 Attachment - Glidewell Direct Dental Thermoforming Lab Supplies

Introduction

How to make an orthodontic retainer using the ERKOFORM-3.

Figure #1
For fabrication of an orthodontic retainer, an Erkodur 1.5 mm foil is used.
Figure #2

Since this material is so thin, you will need to block out any undercuts and deep interproximal openings.
Figure #3

Use ERKOGUM.
Figure #4

Tear off a small piece of ERKOGUM and knead between your fingers.
Figure #5

When it is soft and pliable, flatten it on your work bench.
Figure #6

Using a waxing tool, pick up a small amount of ERKOGUM and apply it to the interproximals of each tooth.
Figure #7

Also block out the lingual anatomy of the anteriors.
Figure #8

Fill the thermoforming pot about three-quarters full with granules.
Figure #9

Embed the model.
Figure #10

Finish filling the pot with granules until full.
Figure #11

Place the cover sheet over the model.
Figure #12

Apply a liberal amount of Isolac to the model.
Figure #13

Place the thermoforming pot into the pressure chamber as shown.
Figure #14

Go to the touch screen and select the correct material to be thermoformed.
Figure #15

Press continue.
Figure #16

Take off the foil lock ring.
Figure #17

Load the Erkodur foil, spacer label down.
Figure #18

Press start.
Figure #19

You will then be prompted to turn the foil ring under the heating element.
Figure #20

The material will begin its heating cycle.
Figure #21

When there are 10 degrees left in the cycle, a series of beeps will sound. Do not take any action at this point.
Figure #22

When the entered temperature has been reached, a continuous tone will sound.
Figure #23

Turn the foil ring over the model and push down. Press down slightly to thermoform.
Figure #24

The Cooling Timer will begin automatically.
Figure #25

After the cooldown cycle is complete, remove the foil lock ring.
Figure #26

Remove the foil disc. Brush off any loose granules and remove the template cover.
Figure #27

Using the twist drill in a slow speed handpiece, begin cutting away the disc from the model.
Figure #28

In the facial area, cut right at the gingival line.
Figure #29

In the lingual area, cut just below the gingival line.
Figure #30

After cutting all the way around the device, cut two lines from each corner of the model to the edge of the disc.
Figure #31

Now you should be able to break away the extra material from the model.
Figure #32

Remove the device from the model as shown.
Figure #33

Using the crosscut carbide, taper the entire outside edge.
Figure #34

As well as the inside edge of the retainer.
Figure #35

Next, smooth all edges using the Lisko-S disc.
Figure #36

Remove the spacer, or liner, from the device.
Figure #37

A final polishing can be done by using either a hot air pen,
Figure #38

Or using a butane torch.
Figure #39

You have just completed fabrication of an orthodontic retainer.

Shipping \| Company \| Careers \| Contact Us \| Conventions \| Downloads \| Site Map	Policies & Warranty

ERKOFORM-3™ with Occluform-3® Attachment