Contact points

Class II restorations using composite resins present a number of technical problems, including the creation of tight interproximal contact points. A tight proximal contact will balance the mesial and distal forces and prevent food impaction.

For a while now, the use of preformed matrices and separator rings, in combination with wedges, has made it possible to obtain good restorations with satisfactory morphology. An even more efficient system has recently been introduced, which combines preformed matrices, innovatively designed wedges, and nickel-titanium rings providing optimum separation that remains consistent over time. This clinical case demonstrates the procedure for conservative restoration of teeth 15 and 14 using this innovative system.

The radiograph (fig 1) shows that the patient has a distal carious lesion of 14 and a mesial lesion of 15 (fig 2). After isolating the operative field with a rubber dam (fig 3), the cavity on 14 is prepared (figs 4 and 5) through which the mesial lesion on 15 can be reached (fig 6) and the tooth is restored (fig 7). The Palodent Plus matrix is then placed on tooth 14, with simultaneous placement of a wedge and ring (fig 8). The design of the nickel-titanium ring means that the matrix fits perfectly around the tooth (fig 9). Next comes the bonding phase; DENTSTPLY Detrey Conditioner 36 (36 per cent phosphoric acid) is applied first (fig 10), followed by XP-Bond adhesive (wet bonding method). The cavity is then partially filled with SDR (Smart Dentine Replacement) (fig 11); after waiting a few seconds for the products to self-level perfectly inside the cavity, it is polymerised.