In search of a suitable denture marker.

The ID-Band (SDI AB, Sweden) has become the standard, internationally and FDI accepted denture marking system. In Australia however the strip is not easily obtainable and is expensive. Two other materials have been trialled as possible alternatives: (1) Titanium foil (9 microns) and (2) Ho Band (matrix) (3 microns) (Lorvic Corp, USA). All three bands were tested for tensile strength and elongation at temperatures: RT, 700 degrees and 900 degrees C. As the ID- and Ho Bands are both 18-8 stainless steel their performance was similar. The 18-8 was stronger, had a higher percentage break point and a higher elongation. The latter meant that it was softer and could be more easily inscribed and was therefore more suitable for denture marking. T1 is becoming increasingly used in dentistry but in spite of its abundance it is not likely to replace stainless steel for denture marking at present. On the other hand the Ho Band is cheaper, more readily available and it could replace ID-Band for use in Australia. An alternative paper based marking system is also presented together with the rationale for its use.