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The Triodent 360-degree cervicalmatrix system

Ideal requirements for compositerestorationsMany factors will influence the outcomeof a successful composite restoration. Notonly is it essential that the restorationshould be aesthetically acceptable throughcareful shade determination, shape andcontour, but it must also restore the toothto its required function, and should alsopermit correct oral hygiene procedures tobe carried out.

In placing both composite and glassionomer resin materials, clinicians areadvised to make full use of a matrix that

will suit a specific class or type of cavity.However, in trying to address therequirements of an ideal matrix system,some products can fall short of the ideal,and resultant restorations can be somewhatdeficient in contour and function and mayalso result in the patient experiencingroutine oral hygiene problems such asinterproximal food packing.

Clinicians can also experience difficultyin placement of the composite materialswhen trying to restore hard-to-reachareas in the mouth for Class 5 cervicalrestorations or for abfraction lesions.

The Triodent 360-degree cervicalmatrix systemBeing conscious of these complications,

the Triodent company of New Zealand(producers of the V3 Ring Matrix System)

recently introduced its new 360 cervicalmatrix, which can help clinicians toovercome these problems.

The 360 system offers three sizes ofpreformed anatomically shaped matrices(small, medium and large) that aresupplied with a small handle affixed tothem. This enables them to be rotated byusing the Triodent Pin Tweezers to helpachieve correct positioning on the teeth.Their shaped curvature helps to creategood tooth contour and, as they are madefrom a clear and slightly flexible coatedsynthetic material, this produces a smooth

mirror-like finish to the composite resin.Their conformity of shape can be beneficialin helping prevent the formation of voidsand the air inhibited layer. They are alsosee-through, allowing visibility andcomplete light curing.

The Pin Tweezers can permit easyplacement, and a secure positive gripcan be gained by squeezing the Tweezertips, and can be useful when positioningmatrices on the distal aspects of an uppersecond molar.

In using the 360 matrices, it isrecommended that the clinician makesfull use of the Pin Tweezers, as they havethree angles of attachment. The selectedmatrix is loaded onto the Tweezers, andthe correct angle of insertion should then

be determined by rotating the matrix togain easy access to the prepared cavity.

Squeezing the back of the tweezers willrelease the grip.

Placement techniqueWhen filling the cavity, it is suggested thatit be slightly overfilled before carefullysliding the matrix over the restored area(sub-gingivally, if necessary), and anglingthe matrix towards the gingival marginto force excess composite material supra-gingivally. The matrix should be held in

place whilst light curing is carried out. After curing, the matrix can be removedand the restoration finished and polishedas normal. A final light curing can then bemade.

In order to achieve even betterconformity of fit and contour, the matrixcan be pre-shaped by squeezing it at thesides until it is slightly narrower than thetooth. When pressed onto the tooth beforecavity preparation it will expand and

conform more readily to tooth contours. When working with sub-gingival

cavities, retraction cord can be used to gainbetter access to gingival margins, and tocontrol any crevicular exudate.

AdvantagesThe Triodent 360 matrix system presentsclinicians with a product that has manyadvantages over the long-time used andtraditional rectangular strips, which

cannot be adapted successfully to thecontours of natural teeth. In using the 360matrix system, the clinician can be assuredthat time will be saved. These matrices willnot lose their shape, and will significantlyreduce sculpting time and will contributeto faster finishing and polishing.

A new and time-saving product for use with composite restorations is describedhere by Tony Beale

Triodent V3 and 360 Matrix systems

are available from Optident Ltd,

International Development Centre,

Valley Drive, Ilkley, LS29 8AL. Call 01943

605050, email sales@optident.co.uk or

visit wwww.optident.co.uk.

Figure 1: The small, medium and large

360-degree cervical matrix forms

Figure 2: Close up of 360 matrix held

in Pin Tweezers

Figure 3: Illustration showing distal

placement of matrix on lower secondmolar

Figure 4: The Triodent 360 Cervical

Matrix Quick Guide