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Dental Implant Aid
With dental implant procedures, dentists have the issue of later accessing the abutment screw. After a tooth is connected to the screw, it is capped with a filler which ends up clogging the screw head. Ad hoc remedies, such as plumber's tape, are often used as a barrier which leads to bacterial growth and infections.
FirstPlug is biocompatible, bacteria impervious, expunges moisture, and is made in the USA. The dispenser design is airtight, allows one-handed opening, prevents material fallback, includes a finger recess, cutter, measuring strip, and volume indicator, and is made from FDA-grade recyclable polypropylene.
BACKGROUND
With dental implant restorations there’s long been an issue in later removing the hardening resin and gaining access to the abutment screw for cleaning, replacement, or addressing infections.
Material Solution
FirstPlug® is a patented medical-grade PTFE material specifically engineered to be placed into the screw channel of implant restorations. FirstPlug® is biocompatible, impervious to bacteria growth, expunges moisture, packable, and is made in the USA.
How it Works
​FirstPlug® is a patented medical-grade PTFE material specifically engineered to be placed into the screw channel of implant restorations. FirstPlug® is biocompatible, impervious to bacteria growth, expunges moisture, packable, and is made in the USA.
Branding & Web
Our goal for FirstPlug® and 35Newtons® was to break away from the conventional look of dental products, creating a brand that resonates with both dentists and dental assistants. For the product launch, we built an e-commerce site and companion app at www.35Newtons.com, offering direct sales, educational resources, industry news, and support.
Design Solutions
The FirstPlug dispenser was carefully designed to meet multiple user needs in a compact, intuitive form. It enables one-handed operation, allows for precise material handling with gloves, includes an integrated measuring strip and cutter, and prevents material fallback—ensuring ease of use and efficiency in clinical settings.
Manufacturing
Our medical device manufacturing resources made FirstPlug a feasible venture by providing cost-effective small-volume production. Facilities include ISO 13485 credentials, clean room assembly, and quality control measures, with FDA Registration.
Prototyping
Dispenser design prototypes were produced and tested throughout the engineering and validation process. Refining engineering details included developing a living hinge that could spring open 90 degrees while remaining flat for the measuring strip, and ensuring an airtight enclosure.
Engineering
The engineering details of FirstPlug were essential in creating an economical, disposable dispenser with minimal parts. Special attention was given to hinge and closure mechanics along with the design for injection molding, avoiding any undercuts, and providing visibility to the material volume.
Accessory Design
To accompany FirstPlug® we developed dedicated instruments for placement and removal procedures. Manufactured in the USA with durable, high-quality materials, these instruments are designed for longevity and are packaged to align with the FirstPlug brand.
Packaging & IFU
FirstPlug®’s packaging balances compliance with a modern appeal for younger dental assistants. It includes FDA-required labeling, an airtight polybag for the dispenser, and a welcoming interior message. The Instructions for Use (IFU) enhance clarity with a visually intuitive design for easy comprehension.
Concept Development
Through an iterative design process, we balanced marketability and usability. The design offers a higher value proposition than traditional institutional commercial equipment. This appeals to younger dental professionals and early adopters, who appreciate well-designed products and brands. Functionality was equally prioritized—considering one-handed operation with gloves, a fast and easy way to measure and cut, monitoring usage, and more.
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