IdentAlloy Program History
The IdentAlloy program was created in 1986 by progressive dental materials manufacturers who understood the need to self-regulate the explosive growth in new restorative materials. As the field of restorative dentistry expanded, the increase in the number and types of alloys and other restorative materials created a sometimes bewildering array of choices for laboratories and dentists.
The major alloy manufacturers agreed that some standardization of materials and claims would enable alloy users to make a more educated choice of materials. The manufacturers worked in partnership with the ADA to create specific alloy classification categories, and formed the IdentAlloy Council to implement the classification guidelines. Adapting easily recognizable alloy composition symbols, the Council began issuing its now-familiar High Noble, Noble and Predominantly Base IdentAlloy certificates to acceptable alloys.
Rules for participation were simple, but strict. Manufacturers were required to document that they were voluntarily abiding by the ADA-sanctioned guidelines determining alloy content. High Noble alloys had to be at least 60% noble metal, with 40% gold. Noble alloys had to contain at least 25% noble metal.
As each alloy was accepted into the program, its manufacturer received custom IdentAlloy certificates to include with each alloy shipment. Conveniently printed on stickers, the certificates clearly displayed the brand name, manufacturer's name, alloy composition and, most importantly, the classification. Labs and dentists could then use the certificates as permanent records of alloy composition.
The immediate response to the IdentAlloy program was overwhelmingly positive, with glowing reviews from all corners. Dr. Gordon Christensen's venerable CRA newsletter rated the program "Excellent." It was likewise endorsed by the National Association of Dental Laboratories and Health Insurance Institute of America.
In 2007, responding to the development of ceramic technology and the growth of ceramics in dental prosthetic restorations, the IdentAlloy Council became the IdentAlloy/IdentCeram Council with the establishment of the IdentCeram program. The Council began issuing certificates for milled yttrium zirconia (YZ) materials and soon expanded the program to cover compositions of leucite glass (LG), lithium disilicate glass ceramic (LD) and fluorapatite glass ceramic (FA).
In 2004 the Council created a new IdentAlloy certificate for chrome cobalt products designed for use in removable partial dentures. In 2008 it added a certificate for titanium alloys. Approximately 90% of the precious metal alloys now used in the U.S. are registered with the Council and carry IdentAlloy certificates.
Today, the IdentAlloy and IdentCeram programs continue to provide the only independent oversight and certification of restorative material content. They also deliver valuable educational and record-keeping services free of charge to dental labs and practices. That's why so many professionals throughout the industry have come to depend on the IdentAlloy/IdentCeram Council to verify the quality, integrity and value of restorative work. Meanwhile, patients experience the benefits through improved outcomes, greater peace of mind and streamlined insurance filings.