3M and 3M Innovative Properties Co. filed a patent infringement lawsuit in federal district court in Wilmington, Del., last week against Kerr Corporation. The suit alleges that Kerr Corporation’s SonicFill™ 2 and Harmonize™ dental composite materials infringe 3M’s patent rights directed to nanotechnology used in 3M^TM Filtek^TM Supreme universal dental restoratives.

3M’s patented nanotechnology enables high aesthetic quality, strength and wear resistance. Filtek^TM Supreme Universal Restorative was the first nanotechnology-based dental composite utilizing engineered nanoparticles that result in unsurpassed polish retention, excellent strength, and wear resistance. Over 600 million restorations have been performed globally using the Filtek Supreme universal restorative product line.

3M’s Oral Care Solutions Division is committed to improving oral care through continuous investments in research and development and is recognized globally as one of the most innovative dental companies.

“As an industry leader, we are committed to protecting our innovative nanotechnology and associated intellectual property,” said Eric Wenzel, global business director, 3M Oral Care Solutions Division.

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At 3M we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $30 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 @3MNews.

3M Media Contact:Lori Anderson, 651-733-0831