3M began in 1902 as Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing, a small abrasives company in the USA. Its dental arm grew through the acquisition of Germany's ESPE (impression materials) and Unitek (orthodontics). 3M ESPE became one of the world's most trusted names in restorative dentistry. Iconic lines include Filtek composites, RelyX cements, Single Bond adhesives and Ketac glass ionomers. 3M Unitek brackets and wires (Victory, Clarity, Gemini) are staples in orthodontic practices. In 2024 3M spun off its healthcare business, so the dental range now sits under Solventum. For dentists the name still stands for research-driven, consistent premium materials.