In this occasional series, Dr. Sheri Doniger will share her experiences with some of her favorite dental instruments, materials, and equipment. These are products Dr. Doniger personally uses or has tested in her practice.
One of the simplest matrix systems available, Triodent's V3 sectional matrix system, offers the clinician predictable contacts with perfect anatomy. This product makes class II restorations so much easier than when using the old-school matrices.
The procedure is easy (see slides). Once the tooth is prepared, place the contoured matrix band between the teeth. The matrix, known as the Wave Wedge, is able to be set either bucally or lingually, which is a great asset to the operator since sometimes lingual access may be difficult.
The ring, which is composed of elastic nickel titanium, is placed between the teeth and gently separates the teeth to afford for the proper anatomical contour. Two ring sizes are available, one for premolars and one for molars, that are effective on all embrasures.
"The V shape of the tines, from which the ring gets its name, was a simple and perfectly effective solution to the problem of the retainer ring and the wedge competing for the same piece of interproximal space," Peter Watt of Triodent told me during the Chicago Midwinter Meeting. "Not only do the tines accommodate the wedge, but the V shape gives the ring a broad, firm, and anatomical contact close to the gingival margin, so the ring has the widest indications for use of any ring, being able to be used on wide boxes, even when a cusp is missing."
Triodent has a patented placement forcep for both the wedge and the matrix, so you do not lose track of either during the placement or removal process. One recommendation: The ring should be ligated with dental floss for safety and security.
Sheri Doniger, D.D.S., practices clinical dentistry in Lincolnwood, IL. She has served as an educator in several dental and dental hygiene programs, has been a consultant for a major dental benefit company, and has written for several dental publications. Most recently, she was the editor of Woman Dentist Journal and Woman Dentist eJournal. You can reach her at [email protected].
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
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