3M announced today that a German district court ruled in favor of 3M in an unfair competition claim 3M filed against South Korea-based Seil Global Co. Ltd.

The court found Seil’s red-colored dental mixing tips looked confusingly similar to 3M´s dental mixing tips that are recognizable by their unique red color and marketed under the brand 3M™ ESPE™ Penta™ Mixing Tips. The decision is final, which means that Seil is permanently enjoined from selling its red mixing tips in Germany.

3M´s dental mixing tips are well-known in the market and have acquired competitive distinctiveness in Germany. The unique design of the Penta mixing tip that is also covered by a utility patent and a design registration provides users of the 3M™ ESPE™ Pentamix™ Mixing Units with a high quality tip that delivers the most uniform, consistent result. It also facilitates easier extrusion of the impression material.

3M is committed to improving oral care through continuous research and development investments. By protecting its intellectual property and ensuring genuine 3M products are distributed through secure, authorized channels, 3M helps dentists and their patients avoid the use of unauthentic products.

About 3M

At 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $32 billion in sales, our 90,000 employees connect with customers all around the world. Learn more about 3M’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at www.3M.com or on Twitter @3M or @3MNewsroom.

3MLori Anderson, 651-733-0831