The Need For
For Self Regulation
The IdentAlloy and IdentCeram program evolved from the alloy-only program created in 1986 by a group of progressive dental manufacturers. These manufacturers understood the need to self-regulate the explosive growth in new restorative materials, since expansions in the field of restorative dentistry created a sometimes bewildering array of choices for laboratories and dentists.
The major manufacturers agreed that some standardization of materials and claims would enable alloy users to make a more educated choice of materials. The manufacturers worked in partnership with the ADA to create specific alloy classification categories, and formed the IdentAlloy Council to implement the classification guidelines. Adapting easily recognizable alloy composition symbols, the Council began issuing its now-familiar High Noble (HN), Noble (N) and Predominantly Base (PB) IdentAlloy certificates to acceptable alloys.
A vital need
Fulfilled
The immediate response to the IdentAlloy program was overwhelmingly positive, with glowing reviews from all corners. Dr. Gordon Christensen’s venerable CRA newsletter rated the program “Excellent.” It was likewise endorsed by the National Association of Dental Laboratories and Health Insurance Institute of America.
As each alloy was accepted into the program, its manufacturer received custom IdentAlloy certificates to include with each alloy shipment. Conveniently printed on stickers, the certificates clearly displayed the brand name, manufacturer’s name, alloy composition and, most importantly, the classification. Labs and dentists could then use the certificates as permanent records of alloy composition.
In 2004 the Council created a new IdentAlloy certificate for chrome cobalt products designed for use in removable partial dentures. In 2008 it added a certificate for titanium alloys. Approximately 90% of the precious metal alloys now used in the U.S. are registered with the Council and carry IdentAlloy certificates.
Covering ceramics
In 2007, responding to the development of ceramic technology and the growth of ceramics in dental prosthetic restorations, the IdentAlloy Council became the IdentAlloy/IdentCeram Council with the establishment of the IdentCeram program. The Council began issuing certificates for milled yittrium zirconia (YZ) materials and soon expanded the program to cover compositions of leucite glass (LG), lithium disilicate glass ceramic (LD) and fluorapatite glass ceramic (FA). More recently, the program has added aluminum oxide (AO), LE (leucite-glass ceramic), LG (leucite-glass) and ZLS (zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate).
Membership requirements
Rules for participation were and continue to be simple, but strict. Manufacturers are required to document that they are voluntarily abiding by the ADA-sanctioned guidelines determining alloy content. High Noble alloys must be at least 60% noble metal, with 40% gold. Noble alloys must contain at least 25% noble metal. You can download the Material-Content-Disclosure-Guidelines here.
The Council today
The IdentAlloy and IdentCeram programs continue to provide certificates showing the restorative material content. They also deliver valuable educational and record-keeping services free of charge to dental labs and practices.
That’s why so many professionals throughout the industry have come to depend on the IdentAlloy/IdentCeram Council to verify the quality, integrity and value of restorative work while saving time and simplifying paperwork. Meanwhile, patients experience the benefits through improved outcomes, greater peace of mind and streamlined insurance filings.
Identalloy
Board of Directors
Julie Mroziak
Past PresidentDentsply Sirona Lab
Julie leads the Global Platform Marketing for Digital Lab workflows, which includes digital dentures, and crown and bridge innovation, but also Preventive procedures including Scaling, Polishing & Treatments, IP and Diagnostics. Her passion is driving dental innovation to support improving patient smiles. She holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.
Anton Woolf
PresidentArgen Corporation
Gary Iocco
Lab Representative/DirectorDimension Dental Design
Sean Siegel
Lab Representative/DirectorCastable Ceramics
Laura Gilbert
DirectorIvoclar Vivadent, Inc.