Traditional crown removal techniques can be problematic and time-consuming. Most instruments rely on a pulling or impact force. These forces are resisted by the ligament, resulting in patient discomfort. If applied to the margin, these forces create a rotational pressure that can fracture the underlying tooth or crown. Splitting is effective, but it destroys the crown for reuse.
Based on the principle of a fulcrum, the WAMkey Instrument provides a solution that allows you to remove single or multiple unit prostheses without pain or impact. In addition, it preserves the crown for reuse as a temporary. WAMkey uses no percussive impact and exerts force in the vertical axis of the tooth for removal along the path of least resistance.
WAMkey is quickly mastered with a simple "drill and twist" technique:
- Drill a small horizontal hole into the crown at the cement layer between the crown and core, usually just below the occlusal surface. Often, the hole can be drilled on the lingual side of crown.
- When the interface is visible, deepen the hole until it reaches the center of the tooth preparation.
- Insert the smallest size WAMkey instrument. WAMkey comes in a set of three incrementally-sized keys.
- Rotate the WAMkey handle 1/4 turn, without prying, to loosen the crown.
- If the cement is not broken, proceed to the next size WAMkey instrument until the crown is removed.
- If desired, re-cement the crown as a temporary and fill the hole with composite.
WAMkey works in 90% of all cases—no anesthesia needed. The entire process can be completed in about two minutes, saving you valuable chairside time. Fully autoclavable German stainless steel construction. 5 3/4” long. Three incrementally-sized instruments per set with instructions.
