They could be:-
Cost
Colour
Handling qualities and characteristics
(All of these?)
How do we evaluate the modelling wax to make the decision?

I suggest that when evaluating modelling wax there should be bench mark of the desirable properties, which the wax should meet. This would then form the basis of our evaluation. I must add here that it is my experience that most waxes on the market today do perform adequately enough to meet most of these requirements. An evaluation of Accord modelling wax

1. High strength and rigidity at mouth temperature. 2. Wide softening range above mouth temperature. 3. Easily mouldable in the softened state, without flaking, cracking or tearing. 4. Low thermal contraction. 5. Easily carved at room temperature without flaking or chipping. 6. Little change in properties on melting and re-solidification. 7. No residue on boiling out.

We can of course add to the list, for example, in considering the colour of the wax. Colour however is subjective, what you may think of as the right colour for the wax someone else could and probably will find completely inappropriate. At the end of the day you have to decide whether the colour will be acceptable to yourself and your clients.

Another factor we will almost certainly wish to bear in mind is cost.
We can compare the cost with the other waxes on the market, but that will only indicate that a wax is more or less expensive than the wax in current use or in relation to what you think you should be paying.
There are waxes on the market which are very inexpensive but do they fulfil the other criteria?
You may, for instance, be prepared to put up with the waxes failings if you can save a few pence when you purchase it. This could be a false economy. Should we not always be looking for a wax to fulfil all the desirable properties of modelling wax with a minimum of compromise.

Because there is an absence of scientific data provided by most of the manufacturers, it is for us in the dental laboratory to evaluate the suitability of the modelling waxes.
There are a series of simple tests that could be followed:-

• 1)If the manufacturer has included any instructions read and follow them i.e.:
  With Accord wax you have to adapt a slightly different technique when laying down of the sheet wax over the model. (see example appraisal below).

• 2) Soften a sheet of wax over a Bunsen flame and observe its characteristics, compare with other waxes of similar type.
  Note Result: i.e.: Is the wax easily mouldable in the softened state, without flaking, cracking or tearing?
  Is there low thermal contraction of the wax on the model?
  Did the wax perform in accordance of expectations for this type of wax?

• 3) Soften the wax sheet and mould into a block which would be suitable for bite registration, compare as before with other waxes.
  Again note Result: i.e.: Did the wax mould well and was the wax easily carved at room temperature without flaking or chipping?
  Did the wax perform in accordance with expectations of this type of wax?

• 4) Carve, trim and pin flame the wax block and polish with cold water and cotton wool, once again compare with other waxes.
  Note Result: Did the wax carve and trim easily?
  Did the wax take a good polish etc.?

• 5) Set a few teeth into position onto the wax.
  Once again note the Result: Did the teeth stay in position after the wax had cooled? Were the teeth easy to reposition and did the wax carve easily with a good finish?

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An appraisal of Accord Precise modelling and rim wax

Kemdent developed Accord Precise wax as part of the Accord System Denture using scientific measurements as well as practical evaluation. The flow data bar charts below compares Accord to another Kemdent wax, Anutex, and illustrates Accord’s greater rigidity at both room and mouth temperature.

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The Accord Precise Modelling wax carton includes instructions for use because a slightly different technique is required when moulding the wax.

• 1.Adapt the sheet to the model, gently warm the wax and adapt it while still quite cool.
  This is because the Accord has a higher melting point and greater toughness than many other waxes, so take care not to stretch or overheat the Accord Precise sheet, which will cause it to tear.

• 2. Fitting is generally achieved by slight warming with a pin flame which facilitates enough softness for the final adapting with your wax knife.

• 3. The base or trial set-up can be polished to a brilliant mirror-like finish using the normal technique of cotton wool and cold water.

• 4. Accord Precise pink bite registration blocks can be easily adapted after being immersed in warm water for a few minutes to soften them through.

At 1.7mm thick Accord Precise sheets are thicker than the average.
This is claimed to be the optimum thickness for the palate of the final denture and therefore saves the technician time.
Extra wax does not have to be melted on the base to compensate for “stretching” which might happen with an ordinary material.
Overall, when trimming and pin flaming I have found the results superb. The final polish is exceptional.
I use Accord wax for all prosthetic cases within the private sector with excellent results and favourable comments from both dentist and patients.
I know some technicians are resistant to change and mightsay,
" Why should I adapt to another technique, I’ve always done it this way.”
If you think that, fine! However, I have found that by using this new wax and by trying a slightly different technique,
I can produce a very high quality product, which has given me far greater job satisfaction.
In conclusion, I would say that Accord Precise is the best wax I have ever used in my laboratory.
It represents excellent value for money and I will continue to use it until something even better comes along!
The Accord System Denture is a new concept in denture creation. If offers technicians and dentists the best opportunity for delighting patients with comfortable, well-fitting dentures.

Accord is a Registered Trade Mark of Accord Moulding Systems Ltd.
and is applied ONLY to prosthetic products marketed on their scientific merits.

Modelling waxes are made in different ways.
Only the Kemdent©, process creates truly toughened sheets which are ideally suited for moulding.

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To contact the Laboratory, by internet, send mail to cdl@cotswolddentallab.co.uk

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© Martyn R Young
Cotswold Dental Laboratory
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© 1998 Cotswold Dental Laboratory