Sid Tass is the Founder and Director of tdl Precision Orthodontics. tdl is a commercial orthodontic dental laboratory based in Canterbury, an eastern suburb of Melbourne, Victoria. tdl specialises in fixed, removable and thermoformed orthodontic appliances.
Sid is enthusiastic about tdl, their clinical customers, and the patients who experience and benefit from the orthodontic appliances. It's an enthusiasm that stems from an extraordinary combination of genuine passion for technology, orthodontics, excellence and people.
Since childhood, Sid has been fascinated by all types of technology, innovation and engineering. He has always sought to learn how technology can solve problems and work out ways to use it innovatively.
When in Year 10, Sid undertook work experience at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne and gravitated to the dental technology department. A career dedicated to dental technology was born out of those few weeks. He was steered towards orthodontics due mainly to a keen aptitude for accuracy and skill in wire bending.
Now in 2023, tdl celebrated 32 years in business this February. Sid and his team have an unshakable appetite for technical excellence. Their customers include some of Australia's foremost orthodontic practitioners who trust and rely on the consistent standards that tdl delivers.
A commitment to the dental health of those who experience tdl appliances also drives the high standards. The name of the patient is used to identify every single job. It's a constant reminder that every appliance is used to elevate the dental health of an individual person.
The business constantly aims to be at the forefront of practical technology that delivers better results. In 2009, TDL purchased one of Australia's first 3D printers. Starting with toys and other non-dental related objects, the aim was to understand how to work with the technology in readiness for its use in the dental industry. Then in 2013, tdl began using a then-new photo polymer technology 3D printer in conjunction with intra-oral scanning for appliance design and manufacture.
Sid comments: "Our customer's feedback is that we apply uncommon care to our work and business relationships. If we stay patient-driven and use technology and expertise to the best of our ability, our customers will continue to regard us highly".
Sid has used Dentaurum since tdl started. Dentaurum wire, expansion screws, sectional screws and Orthocryl acrylics are all staples at tdl.
"We make a lot of appliances", said Sid. "The quality of Dentaurum materials is far superior. We like to stay on top of all the latest products, we have tried other brands over the years based on recommendations from others. But inevitably return to Dentaurum because of the consistently superior quality".
"Our customers are often extremely busy, booked out for months ahead. They cannot afford the time or loss of reputation if things go wrong. We must, and they know, we deliver the quality standard they expect every time. Quality means patient fit, comfort and durability. Dentaurum helps us to achieve consistently predictable levels of precision and excellent durability. We make our appliances as we would for our own children every time."
'We use the full range of Dentaurum acrylic colours to create appliances children and teenagers like to wear. It boosts compliance, which is central to enduring orthodontic clinical results.
"We have complete trust and confidence in not only Dentaurum products but the team as well. We know from experience that they never leave a stone unturned if we need their help or support.