Top 10 Plastic Instruments in Dentistry

-- Dental Country Editors

gold plastic instrument

Composite filling instrument kits contain various dental instruments used for shaping, filing, and placing composite or plastic material.

Table 1: Comparison of Numbers

NamePriceNumber of PiecesTip TypesManufacturer
Flexi-Tips® – Complete Set$70.9912Angle Chisel, Cup Chisel, Cup Round, Flat Chisel, TaperedAmerican Dental Supply
LM Arte Posterior Set$403.696N/APLANMECA INC
StyleSkulpt Composite Instrument Kit$193.997Posterior occlusal shaper, Universal thin PFI, Curved ball burnisherHU-FRIEDY
OptraSculpt® Pad – Assortment Kit$293.99121N/AIvoclar Vivadent N.A.
Satin Steel XTS Composite Instruments – Anterior/Posterior Set Goldfogel$632.999Curved, Knife, Oval, SpearHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
OptraSculpt® Next Generation and OptraSculpt® Pad System Kit$524.99122Ball tips, Chisel tips, Pointed tipsIVOCLAR NORTH AMERICA INC
Trimax™ Composite Instruments – Kit$325.9962Premolar, Molar, Large MolarAddent Inc.
Flexi-Tips® – 2 Double-End Handles and 10 Silicone Tips$86.9912Angle Chisel, Cup Chisel, Cup Round, Flat Chisel, TaperedAmerican Dental Supply
Flexi-Tips® – Complete Set$70.995Angle Chisel, Cup Chisel, Cup Round, Flat Chisel, TaperedAmerican Dental Supply
Satin Steel XTS Composite Instruments – Posterior Kit$341.995Hollenback, OT Tanner, Contact formingHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.

Table 2: Comparison of Features

NameTip TypesKit TypeManufacturerNumber of PiecesAutoclavable
Flexi-Tips® – Complete SetAngle Chisel, Cup Chisel, Cup Round, Flat Chisel, TaperedCompositeAmerican Dental Supply12Yes
LM Arte Posterior SetN/APosteriorPLANMECA INC6N/A
StyleSkulpt Composite Instrument KitPosterior occlusal shaper, Universal thin PFI, Curved ball burnisherCompositeHU-FRIEDY7N/A
OptraSculpt® Pad – Assortment KitN/ACompositeIvoclar Vivadent N.A.121N/A
Satin Steel XTS Composite Instruments – Anterior/Posterior Set GoldfogelCurved, Knife, Oval, SpearCompositeHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.9N/A
OptraSculpt® Next Generation and OptraSculpt® Pad System KitBall tips, Chisel tips, Pointed tipsCompositeIVOCLAR NORTH AMERICA INC122N/A
Trimax™ Composite Instruments – KitPremolar, Molar, Large MolarCompositeAddent Inc.62N/A
Flexi-Tips® – 2 Double-End Handles and 10 Silicone TipsAngle Chisel

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1. Flexi-Tips®

Flexi-tips® – complete set, single end - size 0 small – extra firm black

Product Description

Flexi-Tips® by American Dental Supply are specialized instruments with nonstick silicone tips, designed for handling viscous materials like composite resins, waxes, and sealants. These tools allow smooth manipulation without sticking or pulling.

Product Overview

Each Flexi-Tip® features a surgical steel handle that is autoclavable and equipped with a removable, patented silicone tip. Available in two firmness levels—white (firm/flexible) and black (extra-firm)—these tips are flexible enough to create fluid shapes while maintaining sufficient rigidity for material compaction. The set includes five unique tip shapes for various clinical applications.

Key Features

  • Patented nonstick silicone tips prevent sticking and pulling
  • Designed for composites, sealants, acrylics, epoxies, lubricants, and waxes
  • Autoclavable surgical steel handles with removable tips
  • Flexible for shaping yet firm for compaction
  • White tips (firm/flexible), black tips (extra-firm)
  • Two sizes: size 0 (small) and size 2 (large)
  • Includes 5 tip shapes: angle chisel, cup chisel, flat chisel, cup round, and taper point

Common Applications

  • Placement and shaping of sticky composite resins
  • Handling of dental waxes, sealants, and lubricants
  • Precise sculpting and manipulation of restorative materials

Technical Specifications

  • Material: Autoclavable surgical steel handles, silicone tips
  • Tip Types: Angle chisel, cup chisel, flat chisel, cup round, taper point
  • Sizes: 0 (small), 2 (large)
  • Colors: White (firm/flexible), black (extra-firm)
  • Manufacturer: American Dental Supply
  • Number of Pieces: 5

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2. LM Arte Posterior Set, LM-ErgoSense® Handle

Lm arte posterior set, lm-ergosense® handle

Product Description

The LM Arte Posterior Set with LM-ErgoSense® Handle by Planmeca Inc is a specialized instrument set designed for posterior restorations. Each tool is developed with advanced ergonomic features to improve control, precision, and comfort during use.

Product Overview

This set includes five posterior restoration instruments housed in an LM-Servo™ cassette for easy organization and sterilization. Each instrument is crafted for specific tasks such as measuring, modeling, condensing, and shaping in posterior regions. The LM-ErgoSense® handle design enhances tactile sensitivity and reduces hand fatigue during extended procedures.

Key Features

  • Designed specifically for posterior restorations
  • LM-ErgoSense® handles provide ergonomic grip and control
  • Includes LM-Servo™ cassette for storage and sterilization
  • Instruments tailored for precise measuring, condensing, and shaping
  • Supports improved clinical efficiency and accuracy

Common Applications

  • Posterior composite restoration and sculpting
  • Measuring and shaping of occlusal anatomy
  • Modeling and condensing restorative materials

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Posterior
  • Handle: LM-ErgoSense®
  • Set Contents:
    • Arte Posterior Misura
    • Arte Cusp Misura
    • Arte Fissura
    • Arte Modella
    • Arte Condensa
    • 1 LM-Servo™ cassette
  • Manufacturer: Planmeca Inc
  • Number of Pieces: 6

Customer Ratings

5.0 Stars

Customer Feedback

Dentists appreciate the ergonomic feel and precision of the LM Arte Posterior instruments. The set is valued for its completeness, efficiency, and ability to handle detailed posterior work with consistency and comfort.

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3. StyleSkulpt Composite Instrument Kit

Styleskulpt composite instrument kit

Product Description

The StyleSkulpt Composite Instrument Kit is designed for precise placement and contouring of composite fillings. Each instrument features advanced coatings and ergonomic designs to enhance clinical performance and ease of use.

Product Overview

This kit includes three StyleSkulpt composite instruments, each uniquely shaped for specific restorative tasks. The dark XTS® coating enhances visibility and reduces adhesion to sticky materials. Color-coded cones allow for quick identification, and the smooth, lightweight handles provide ergonomic comfort. The complete kit includes a mirror head, handle, scaler, and IMS cassette for organized storage and sterilization.

Key Features

  • Designed for composite restoration procedures
  • Dark XTS® coating improves visual acuity and reduces sticking
  • Ergonomic, lightweight handles for enhanced comfort
  • Color-coded cones for easy identification
  • Includes mirror head, scaler, and cassette for full setup

Common Applications

  • Placement and shaping of composite restorations
  • Occlusal contouring and finishing
  • Efficient setup and organization of composite instruments

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Set Includes:
    • StyleSkulpt 1 (posterior occlusal shaper)
    • StyleSkulpt 2 (universal thin PFI)
    • StyleSkulpt 3 (curved ball burnisher)
    • Mirror head (5)
    • Cone socket handle (6)
    • EverEdge® 2.0 scaler (204S)
    • IMS 5-instrument cassette
  • Coating: Dark XTS®
  • Handle: Ergonomic and smooth

4. OptraSculpt® Pad

Optrasculpt® pad – assortment kit

Product Description

OptraSculpt® Pad by Ivoclar Vivadent is a specialized composite modeling instrument designed to shape and contour direct composite resin materials without sticking. Its single-use foam pads ensure a smooth application and esthetic finish.

Product Overview

The instrument features highly flexible, antistick synthetic foam attachments that prevent unpolymerized composite resins from adhering to the pad. This helps eliminate material pull-back and surface imperfections. Reference scales on the handle assist in achieving precise and professional esthetic results. The kit includes one instrument and 120 pad refills in two sizes.

Key Features

  • Foam pad attachments with nonstick surface
  • Prevents pull-back and material sticking
  • Does not leave marks for smooth, even surfaces
  • Reference scales on handle for accurate shaping
  • Includes refills in two sizes: 4 mm and 6 mm
  • Designed for professional esthetic composite contouring

Common Applications

  • Shaping and contouring of direct composite resin restorations
  • Esthetic finishing without surface defects
  • Use with anterior or posterior composite applications

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Brand: OptraSculpt
  • Included:
    • 1 OptraSculpt Pad instrument
    • 120 Pad refills (60 x 4 mm, 60 x 6 mm)
  • Material: Synthetic foam attachments
  • Manufacturer: Ivoclar Vivadent N.A.
  • Number of Pieces: 121
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg

Customer Ratings

5.0 Stars

Customer Feedback

Clinicians value OptraSculpt® Pad for its smooth handling, nonstick performance, and ability to create flawless composite surfaces. The included refill pads and measurement guide support consistent, high-quality esthetic results.


5. Goldfogel Satin Steel XTS

Satin steel xts composite instruments – anterior/posterior set goldfogel

Product Description

The Goldfogel Satin Steel XTS kit by Hu-Friedy is a comprehensive set of nonstick composite instruments designed for cosmetic contouring, placement, and shaping of composite and plastic materials. Each tool is crafted from highly polished stainless steel for smooth handling and precision.

Product Overview

This 9-piece set includes a variety of cosmetic contouring instruments, a composite packing tool, a marginal ridge and embrasure shaper, and an occlusal anatomy instrument. The Satin Steel XTS finish offers a nonstick surface ideal for working with adhesive materials, and each instrument features distinct tip shapes for versatility in clinical applications.

Key Features

  • Highly polished stainless steel for nonstick performance
  • Satin Steel XTS finish minimizes adhesion to composite material
  • Includes 6 cosmetic contouring instruments and 3 shaping tools
  • Wide variety of tip shapes: curved, knife, oval, and spear
  • Designed for detailed anterior and posterior restorations

Common Applications

  • Shaping, contouring, and placement of composite or plastic restoratives
  • Cosmetic dental procedures
  • Creating and refining marginal ridges, embrasures, and occlusal anatomy

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Tip Type: Goldfogel
  • Tip Shapes: Curved, Knife, Oval, Spear
  • Set Includes:
    • 1 each of cosmetic contouring instruments (1–6)
    • 1 composite packing instrument
    • 1 marginal ridge and embrasure shaping instrument
    • 1 occlusal anatomy instrument
  • Design Numbers: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I
  • Material: Polished stainless steel
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Number of Pieces: 9
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg


6. OptraSculpt® & OptraSculpt® Pad System

Optrasculpt® next generation and optrasculpt® pad system kit

Product Description

The OptraSculpt® & OptraSculpt® Pad System by Ivoclar North America is a complete composite modeling kit featuring nonstick, disposable tips and pads for precise shaping of direct restorative materials. Designed for both anterior and posterior applications, this system enables smooth, efficient contouring of uncured composites.

Product Overview

This set includes one OptraSculpt® Pad instrument for anterior use and one double-ended OptraSculpt® Next Generation instrument for posterior applications. The kit is equipped with 60 disposable 4 mm pads and 60 posterior modeling tips in various shapes (ball, chisel, and pointed). The system allows quick, precise sculpting with a smooth finish and no pull-back of materials.

Key Features

  • Designed for anterior (Pad) and posterior (Next Generation) composite restorations
  • Nonstick disposable tips and pads prevent material sticking and pull-back
  • Enables efficient modeling, shaping, and contouring of uncured composites
  • Smooths transitions in laboratory paste composites
  • Includes a variety of tip shapes for versatility
  • Comes with a 6-month warranty

Common Applications

  • Anterior and posterior composite restorations
  • Contouring and smoothing of direct sculptable materials
  • Shaping composite transitions and paste applications

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Brand: OptraSculpt
  • Set Includes:
    • 1 single-ended OptraSculpt® Pad instrument
    • 1 double-ended OptraSculpt® Next Generation instrument
    • 60 (4 mm) disposable pads
    • 20 ball tips
    • 20 chisel tips
    • 20 pointed tips
  • Total Number of Pieces: 122
  • Manufacturer: Ivoclar North America Inc
  • Old Manufacturer #: 577273
  • Warranty: 6 months

7. Trimax™ Composite Instruments

Trimax™ composite instruments – kit, 2 handles, 60 tips/pkg

Product Description

Trimax™ Composite Instruments by Addent Inc. are specialized tools designed to improve the quality and efficiency of posterior composite restorations. The system promotes better polymerization and anatomically correct contacts using micro light guide tips and reusable handles.

Product Overview

This kit includes two sterilizable handles and 60 disposable micro light guide tips in three anatomical sizes: premolar, molar, and large molar. The instrument system is designed to provide deeper light penetration for improved curing and to create tight, natural contact areas quickly and efficiently. Replacement tips and handles are available separately for ongoing clinical use.

Key Features

  • Promotes improved polymerization in deep posterior restorations
  • Forms tight, anatomically correct contact areas
  • Fast and easy to use for efficient procedures
  • Includes sterilizable handles and disposable tips
  • Replacement handles and tips available separately
  • Tip shapes: premolar, molar, large molar

Common Applications

  • Posterior composite restorations
  • Light curing of deep cavities
  • Accurate formation of interproximal contacts

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Set Includes:
    • 2 sterilizable handles
    • 60 disposable micro light guide tips
      • 20 premolar
      • 20 molar
      • 20 large molar
  • Number of Pieces: 62
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
  • Manufacturer: Addent Inc.


8. Flexi-Tips® & Silicone Tips

Flexi-tips® – 2 double-end handles and 10 silicone tips

Product Description

Flexi-Tips® & Silicone Tips by American Dental Supply are precision instruments designed for handling viscous restorative materials. These flexible tools feature patented nonstick silicone tips that provide control without sticking or pulling during composite placement and contouring.

Product Overview

Each instrument includes a double-ended surgical steel handle with removable silicone tips. The tips are available in five shapes to support a wide range of restorative techniques and can be sterilized by any method. The system offers smooth handling for materials such as composites, waxes, and sealants, allowing for fluid shaping and precise application.

Key Features

  • Designed for sticky composite resins, acrylics, epoxies, sealants, lubricants, and waxes
  • Double-ended, surgical steel handles with removable silicone tips
  • No sticking or pulling during application
  • Flexible enough to shape fluid contours
  • Completely sterilizable by any method
  • Replacement tips available in 5 shapes:
    • Angle chisel
    • Flat chisel
    • Cup chisel
    • Taper point
    • Cup round

Common Applications

  • Placement and contouring of viscous composite materials
  • Application of dental waxes, sealants, and lubricants
  • Detailed sculpting in esthetic and restorative procedures

Technical Specifications

  • Material: Surgical steel handles with silicone tips
  • Tip Shapes: Angle chisel, flat chisel, cup chisel, taper point, cup round
  • Number of Pieces: 12
  • Package Includes:
    • 2 double-ended handles
    • 10 removable silicone tips
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
  • Manufacturer: American Dental Supply

9. Flexi-Tips® – Extra Firm Black

Flexi-tips® – complete set, single end - size 2 large – extra firm black

Product Description

Flexi-Tips® – Extra Firm Black by American Dental Supply are specialized instruments with patented nonstick silicone tips designed for compacting and shaping sticky composite materials. The extra-firm black tips provide enhanced rigidity for more demanding applications.

Product Overview

Each tip is engineered to resist sticking and pulling when working with viscous materials such as composite resins, sealants, and waxes. The black tips offer extra firmness compared to the standard white tips, making them ideal for stronger contouring. The instruments are used with autoclavable surgical steel handles and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Key Features

  • Designed for sticky composite resins, acrylics, epoxies, sealants, lubricants, and waxes
  • Extra-firm black silicone tips for enhanced rigidity
  • Autoclavable surgical steel handles with removable tips
  • No sticking or pulling during use
  • Flexible enough to produce fluid shapes
  • Two sizes available:
    • Size 0 (small)
    • Size 2 (large)
  • Tip shapes included:
    • Angle chisel
    • Flat chisel
    • Cup chisel
    • Taper point
    • Cup round

Common Applications

  • Compacting and contouring composite materials
  • Shaping and detailing restorative resins and waxes
  • Procedures requiring firmer, more controlled pressure

Technical Specifications

  • Material: Surgical steel handles, silicone tips
  • Tip Type: Extra-firm black silicone
  • Tip Shapes: Angle chisel, flat chisel, cup chisel, taper point, cup round
  • Sizes: 0 (small), 2 (large)
  • Number of Pieces: 5
  • Manufacturer: American Dental Supply

10. Satin Steel XTS Composite Instruments

Satin steel xts composite instruments – posterior kit

Product Description

Satin Steel XTS Composite Instruments by Hu-Friedy are precision tools crafted from highly polished stainless steel to support the shaping, filing, and placement of composite or plastic materials. This posterior kit is specifically designed for Class I and II restorations.

Product Overview

The instruments feature a nonstick stainless steel surface for smooth application of restorative materials. Each tool in the kit is designed to assist with creating precise contours and contacts in posterior restorations. The set includes three Hollenback designs, a 5A, an OT Tanner, and two contact forming instruments in various sizes.

Key Features

  • Nonstick, polished stainless steel surface
  • Designed for shaping, filing, and placing composites
  • Posterior kit optimized for Class I and II restorations
  • Includes a mix of contouring and contact-forming tools
  • Durable and autoclavable construction
  • Tip shapes:
    • Cone
    • Inverted cone
    • Rectangular
    • Rhomboid
  • Tip types:
    • Hollenback
    • Tanner

Common Applications

  • Posterior composite restorations
  • Class I and II restorative procedures
  • Forming accurate interproximal contacts and occlusal anatomy

Technical Specifications

  • Kit Type: Composite
  • Design Numbers: 3, 5A, OT
  • Tip Shapes: Cone, Inverted Cone, Rectangular, Rhomboid
  • Tip Types: Hollenback, Tanner
  • Number of Pieces: 5
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.

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Dental Country Editors

The Dental Country research and editing team reviews all the public and specialty data available for products and services in dentistry as well as consumers' feedback and reviews to provide a fair source of information to both professional and public consumers in dentistry. We appreciate feedback, corrections, suggestions, or additional information available regarding all reviews and articles.