Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Andrew Young, Maffra Dental Clinic, VIC
This self-contained matrix system has the band and band holder all in one unit. The band fully encircles the tooth allowing optimal placement of filling material.
What’s good about it
There’s no need for any extra tools or instruments when placing or removing the band from the tooth. As the band is contoured, this matrix system provides accurate contacts for the filling material, especially in the middle one-third of the tooth. As it provides anatomically correct contours around the filling, the finishing time is improved because you are not polishing away excess material. It also provides better access to the tooth for placement of the filling while giving a relatively unobstructed view of the cavity.
When you’re trying to build the side of the tooth, a sectional matrix doesn’t stretch around the corner. This 360-degree matrix allows you to easily build cusps.
The attached blue thumbwheel can be placed in any position around the tooth, then twisted to create tight contacts. It works if there’s an adjacent missing or misaligned tooth. The Palodent wedges create a very tight seal. It’s a great system.
What’s not so good
The band is so thin, it can distort if you’re trying to push it down subgingivally. This means it’s not ideal for fillings that extend below the gumline. There are also situations where the band is not high enough for larger teeth or deeper fillings. When access in the mouth is limited, it can be difficult to get a grip on the little blue thumbwheel to tighten it.
