SDI (Southern Dental Industries) is an Australian-based global manufacturer of advanced dental materials. Established in 1972, SDI develops and markets products used by dental professionals worldwide. Its commitment to research and development has led to distribution in over 100 countries, providing solutions for various clinical needs.
SDI’s Core Product Categories
SDI offers a portfolio of dental materials for restorative and aesthetic dentistry. Its core offerings include the Riva family of glass ionomer restoratives, such as Riva Light Cure, Riva Self Cure, and Riva Silver. These products provide both self-curing and light-curing options for various restorative needs.
The Aura family of composites is another key restorative line. Aura products create aesthetically pleasing and durable restorations for anterior and posterior teeth. These composites combine a low shrinkage resin with ultra-high-density fillers for strength and polishability.
Beyond restoratives, SDI is known for its Pola brand of whitening systems. This range offers professional tooth whitening solutions, including in-office treatments like Pola Office+ and take-home systems such as Pola Day and Pola Night. These options are designed for reduced sensitivity and come in concentrations for diverse patient needs. SDI also develops adhesives and cements, including bonding agents like Zipbond Universal Adhesive and cements such as Riva Cem Automix. These materials are designed to integrate with restorative products for strong, lasting dental work.
Key Innovations in Dental Materials
SDI differentiates its products with technological advancements, particularly its proprietary ionglass™ technology. This filler is a radiopaque, high-ion-releasing, and reactive glass. It is incorporated into many of SDI’s glass ionomer products and some composite materials.
ionglass™ technology offers sustained fluoride release. Fluoride ions are released from the glass matrix when oral fluoride levels are lower, aiding remineralization of natural tooth structure. It can also be recharged with fluoride from external sources, offering ongoing caries protection. The technology also helps the material mimic natural tooth characteristics, like dentin’s hydrophilic nature and thermal expansion coefficient. Its unique blend of ultrafine, highly reactive glass particles contributes to high compressive strength and low acid erosion, enhancing restoration longevity.
Practical Applications in Dentistry
SDI’s materials have various practical applications. Riva glass ionomers, with their fluoride-releasing capabilities, are suitable for high-caries-risk patients. They are also used for restorations in deciduous (baby) teeth and in geriatric patients, offering a beneficial option for vulnerable populations.
Riva glass ionomers also serve as liners or bases under permanent restorations, often in a “sandwich technique,” leveraging their fluoride release and chemical bond. Their adhesion and sustained ion release make them suitable for Class III and Class V restorations, addressing cervical erosions and abrasion lesions.
The Pola whitening range offers clinicians flexibility to customize treatments based on patient needs and sensitivity. Options include faster in-office procedures or more gradual at-home applications, accommodating various lifestyles. Aura composites are chosen for creating natural-looking restorations. Their shade-matching system simplifies the process for dentists, allowing for predictable, aesthetically pleasing outcomes in both front and back teeth.