Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Jordan Sutherland, Dental Care Smithfield, QLD
The Matrix Master is an instrument designed to assist in placing and removing Tofflemire matrix bands. The instrument was developed by Australian dentists and dental students in Queensland.
What’s good about it
What I really like about this instrument is that it mitigates sharps risks. Previously, I have cut my finger on the top of a matrix band just because there was nothing on the market that allowed for effective, safe placement. The Matrix Master makes it easy, safe and efficient to place them. It also speeds things up and makes it easier to place bands in areas that are difficult to reach.
The instrument is made from one piece of stainless steel and doesn’t have any moving parts. One end is used to place matrix bands while the other end is for their removal. It’s very strong and doesn’t bend when pressure is applied. We’ve sent ours through the steriliser autoclave many times and it doesn’t show any signs of corrosion or damage. It’s not the type of tool that needs to be replaced often.
It’s a simple, well-designed piece of equipment that fits nicely in the hand. I have one in the restorative tray every time I do a filling. It’s nice to have a tool that works so efficiently. I would never go back to using my fingers.
What’s not so good
The only negative to this instrument is that more dentists should be using it. It seems to be fairly unknown and anything that reduces the risk of sharps is a good thing.
