The Luer Lock syringe tip is becoming increasingly popular with dentists and technicians because it is so versatile. With a single tip, you can easily reach different types of cavities and layer flowable enamel much easier.

The quality of the stainless steel tip is good because it doesn’t clump the filament quickly, and the 18-gauge tip on a 45-degree bend allows you to access even the very back molars while controlling the flow.

There are three major reasons to consider the Luer Lock syringe tip:

• Tip material
• Tip length
• Reparability

Because of the transparent syringe base made from durable plastic, it is possible to quickly attach and detach your syringe from the applicator. If you notice the flow of the microfill slowing down or getting clogged, you can exchange it in a moment.

The syringe’s bend and width are also very practical when it comes to applying both microfill and micro-hybrid enamel. The bend compensates for the position you would need to keep when filling out teeth, and it slows down the flow so that there is no spilling.

The stainless steel allows only for the completely uncured enamel to hold to the tip. After a few seconds, it will be naturally detached, allowing you to work without restrictions.

Luer Lock Syringe Tip 18-Gauge Application

Combined with Renamel applicators, the 18-gauge is very easy to use and offers virtually intuitive application regardless of the technique. Because of the stainless steel material and its resistance to clumping, the best way to apply the Luer Lock syringe is for vertical layering.

Once a drop is open, you can use the outer side of the syringe tip to flatten out the layer while applying the next one immediately.

For horizontal layering, you will be able to subtract a bit of enamel to make a flat instrument to apply the layer. While that technique would be slower, it may offer better structure for the filament.

Overall, it is ideal for Class 5 restorations, sealing margins, and occlusal and lingual repairs for damaged enamel. While it can be used to repair pitted areas of micro-hybrid and nanofiller filaments, it will not be as effective as a narrower model in most cases.

Pros & Cons

PROS

• Replicable
• Durable
• Easy to work with
• 45-degree bend
• Medium tip

CONS

• Stainless steel is not ideal for amalgam fillings
• Slightly too thick for minor repairs

Proper Usage

While most dentists will notice this as common practice, it is good to remind ourselves to keep the Luer Lock syringe tip inside the packaging before use for hygiene reasons. 

Stainless steel has no antimicrobial or antibacterial properties and needs to be processed before repeated use. It is advisable to switch the syringe tip after every tooth application.

To prevent any clumping, start the application on a dry and cleared surface. For repairing previous fillings, make sure to provide enough space to apply the microfill equally.

Although the Luer Lock syringe tip 18-gauge is not sharp, dispose of the syringes safely and in the correct medial container.

If any biological contaminant enters the syringe, replace it with a new one immediately.