ClikTech Replaces Metal with Solvay's Radel® PPSU to Develop Novel Litening Rods™ for Medical Use

ClikTech Inc., Buffalo Grove, Ill., one of the leading manufacturers of dental sensor and x-ray film holders, has launched the industry's first thermoplastic rod for dental x-ray holder systems. The company's new Litening Rods™ , made of Radel® polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC, replace metal rods which are labor intensive and more costly. The new product made of Radel® PPSU is light, autoclavable, reusable, and less costly. ClikTech will make the product introduction at the Chicago Dental Society's 2012 Mid-Winter Meeting Feb. 23-25 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Metal rods have been used for decades in dental offices. Although effective, they are costly and prone to breakage, according to Thomas Gillen, president of ClikTech Inc. Metal rods require labor-intensive manufacturing steps including steel forming, bending, and pin insertion. "We have reached a time when we can combine both new and old technologies to produce the best available products at the most reasonable cost to the dental profession," explained Gillen. "These innovative rods serve as the bridge to make the transition from older to the newest technologies significantly easier for the dental office; they provide enhanced performance at a lower cost."

ClikTech developed Litening Rods™ in a close collaboration with XDR Radiology, Los Angeles, and its co-owner Dr. Adam Chen, DDS. Thermoplastic rods made of PPSU are stiff like metal but are 75% lighter, according to Gillen. The rods also offer easier handling due to an integrated handle grip design. They have the added benefit of incorporating a wire clip to accommodate the latest in digital sensors and work with any standard anterior, posterior, or bitewing ring. The rod attaches to a bite block receptacle which in turn holds the digital sensor.

Radel® PPSU is a super-tough thermoplastic with high heat resistance, exceptional hydrolytic stability and excellent chemical resistance. It can withstand over 1000 cycles of steam sterilization without significant loss of properties. It is inherently flame retardant and is resistant to bases and other chemicals. Radel® PPSU is also compliant with ISO 10993-1 for limited exposure, non-implantable applications. Litening Rods are 1/8-in square and five inches long and meet ISO 10993 and FDA requirements for intraoral use. They are commercially available through national dental distribution dealers.