Finishing Strips
Free!
Finishing Strips are slim, abrasive interproximal tools for contouring and polishing where discs can’t reach. Slide them through the contact to remove overhangs, refine margins, and create smooth, plaque-resistant surfaces. Color-coded grits take you from shaping to high gloss quickly, with safe ends that protect tissue. Ideal for composites, excess cement cleanup, and light orthodontic refinement—fast, predictable finishing that improves comfort and long-term hygiene.
Description
Finishing Strips are thin, abrasive strips designed to contour, smooth, and polish interproximal surfaces where rotary discs and cups cannot reach. Used after placing composites, cements, or sealants, the strip slides through the contact area to remove overhangs, refine margins, and blend the restoration to adjacent enamel. Color-coded grits guide you from shaping to high-gloss finishing, helping you achieve tight contacts and plaque-resistant surfaces with minimal chair time.
Key features and benefits:
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Slim, flexible profile for safe access between teeth without opening contacts unnecessarily.
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Abrasive zones with smooth, “safe” ends to protect papilla and adjacent tooth structure.
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Color-coded grits (coarse, medium, fine) for stepwise reduction and polish.
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Perforated or micro-dimpled abrasive for efficient cutting and debris control.
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Available in stainless steel diamond-coated or flexible polymer-backed options to match preference.
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Can be used straight or with a gentle curve to follow natural tooth anatomy.
Typical uses:
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Finishing Class II and Class III composite margins.
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Removing excess resin cement around veneers, inlays, onlays, and crowns.
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Smoothing micro-overhangs after matrix removal and establishing clean embrasures.
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Orthodontic refinement and light interproximal reduction when indicated.
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Hygiene touch-ups to break up stain lines or rough edges that harbor plaque.
How it compares:
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Versus rotary discs, strips reach through tight contacts without risking disk nicks.
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Compared with scalpels or files, abrasive strips are more controlled and produce a smoother, polish-ready surface.
Care and handling:
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Follow the manufacturer’s guidance: single-use polymer strips or sterilizable metal strips, depending on the model. Work sequentially from coarse to fine for best gloss and patient comfort.
