ZerofloX™ from MixPac is a fiber-free micro applicator that offers a wide range of applications, especially in minimally invasive dentistry.
Fig. 1: ZerofloX micro applicator can also be used in difficult-to-reach areas, thanks to its multiple ergonomical options.
Minimally invasive dentistry is no longer limited to microsurgical procedures. For years now, endodontic and restorative dentistry has also been experiencing a shift toward minimally invasive techniques. Inlays, onlays, non-prep or partial veneers, and much more have become part of everyday conservative treatment measures. These techniques demand not only advanced materials, but also precise, controlled, and contamination‑free application of bonding agents and other liquids.
ZerofloX™ was developed to support exactly these clinical requirements. As a fibre-free micro applicator, it offers a reliable, economical, and highly versatile solution for modern adhesive dentistry, especially in difficult‑to‑reach areas.
Fig. 2: Due to its stable elastomer bristles, even the smallest ceramic components can be fixed into place for permanent bonding or during try-ins.
Addressing the Limitations of Conventional Applicators
However, adhesive bonding agents remain complex and cost‑intensive, making their precise application essential.
Conventional brush systems and microfiber‑flocked applicators present several disadvantages:
- Excessive absorption of liquids
- Limited precision during application
- Risk of bristle hardening or detachment due to chemical agents and light‑curing resins
- Potential contamination of enamel and dentin by detached fibre flock particles
In minimally invasive dentistry, where margins are small and access is limited, such risks can compromise clinical outcomes.
Improved restorative materials, such as composites, compomers, and high-performance ceramics, allow for increasingly less invasive tooth-conserving restorations. However, adhesive bonding agents remain complex and cost-intensive, making their precise application essential.
Fig. 3: Particularly in the proximal area or in very small cavities, bonding agents or other liquids can be applied with sufficient pressure.
Conventional brush systems (usually attached to a handle) and microfiber-flocked applicators present several disadvantages:
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Excessive absorption of liquid.
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Risk that the bristles quickly harden or detach due to the chemical agents used such as light-curing resins.
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Potential contamination from detached fibre-flocked brushes.
Fig. 4: Clinical application of primer (Optibond FL) followed by fluorescent black light to display fiber flock residues when using a conventional flocked micro applicator. Courtesy of Prof. Fabio M. Salomão DDS, MsC, PhD, Brazil
Flock-free innovation with Elastomer Bristles
The ZerofloX™ Micro Applicator is an innovative approach to micro applicator design. Manufactured using an injection moulding process with a single material; and is therefore dimensionally stable and does not lose any fibre flock particles. This prevents the monoblock elastomer bristles from fraying and also ensures that they retain their shape.
Fig. 5: The partially coated ZerofloX Micro Applicator [SM1] demonstrates economical and precise absorption of liquids.
This design:
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Eliminates fibre flock detachment
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Prevents fraying or hardening of bristles
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Ensures consistent shape retention
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Supports clean and predictable adhesive application
As a result, ZerofloX significantly reduces contamination risk while improving control during bonding procedures.
Precise and Material Saving Liquid Application
Thanks to its controlled absorption and release, ZerofloX allows precise application of all necessary liquids while also significantly reducing the amount of materials used. Even partial wetting of the applicator is possible, which allows for universal and greater accuracy (Fig. 6).
Fig. 6: For ceramic etching or also final bonding procedures, the inlay is already precisely bonded to the applicator in the dental laboratory, thus ensuring for convenient handling.
This design:
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Eliminates fibre flock detachment
-
Prevents fraying or hardening of bristles
-
Ensures consistent shape retention
-
Supports clean and predictable adhesive application
As a result, ZerofloX significantly reduces contamination risk while improving control during bonding procedures.
Precise and Material Saving Liquid Application
Thanks to its controlled absorption and release, ZerofloX allows precise application of all necessary liquids while also significantly reducing the amount of materials used. Even partial wetting of the applicator is possible, which allows for universal and greater accuracy (Fig. 6).
One Applicator, Multiple Indications
ZerofloX™ is designed for versatility. The same applicator can be used for:
The same applicator can also be used for:
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Multiple bonding applications within one procedure
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Application of the adhesive composites
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Placement and adaptation of composite materials using conventional filling therapy
Composite filling materials do not adhere to the applicator, and no bonding agent is required as a lubricant during conventional filling therapy. Despite its visible elastomer bristles, the bonding agent can be precisely coated and is therefore easier to apply compared to applicator brushes or conventional flocked micro applicators. When used in conjunction with a caries detector (dye in propylene glycol), the ZerofloX Micro Applicator absorbs far less of the expensive detector fluid and can be applied more precisely.
Fig. 7: The elastomer bristle structure of the applicator head allows the caries detector to be applied in difficult-to-reach areas.
Optimised for Endodontic and Indirect Procedures
In endodontics, ZerofloX offers clear advantages over cotton pellets. During pulp extirpation, disinfectants can be easily massaged into all areas of the pulp cavity without leaving any flock remnants, and at the same time, even offers the possibility of removing any remaining cell debris.
The multi-angled applicator shaft also allows easy access in difficult-to-reach areas of the pulp, especially in the posterior region.
Fig. 8: The stable shaft and elastomer bristles allow for sufficient disinfection of the pulp cavity as well as flock-free removal of cell particles, which can then be easily rinsed out using micro cannulas.
After the root canal filling, ZerofloX is also effective for cementing endodontic stabilisation posts, allowing bonding agents to be applied deeply into the narrow and difficult-to-reach spaces of the root canal. This is thanks to ZerofloX’s stable tip and applicator shaft with two bending points.
ZerofloX also allows veneers or inlays to be fixed in place for easier bonding. Fibre-free elastomer bristles prevent contamination of ceramic surfaces, while the two bending points also make it easier to precisely position the applicator and easy removal of residual adhesive.
A New Standard in Adhesive Application
With its fibre-free elastomer bristles, dimensional stability and wide range of applications, ZerofloX represents a true innovation in adhesive technology. Designed for modern minimally invasive dentistry, it combines precision, efficiency and clinical reliability in a single applicator.
Written by Dr. med. dent. S. Marcus Beschnidt
Certified Specialist of Prosthodontics (DGPro)
Focus: Specialist of Implantology (DGI/BDIZ)
Certified sports dentist/team dentist (DGSZM)
Active Member European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (EAED)
www.beschnidt.com
