My New Favorite Sectional Matrix

If it is possible, and not to weird, to be in love with a matrix band, I am. Over the last month I have started to use the Composi-Tight 3D Clear sectional matrix from Garrison and I can not imagine going back to using anything else. I have been a fan of sectional matrix systems for many years, but all of them have had little nuances that had to be overcome clinically. One of these is that the shape of the metal sectional matrix bands does not curve around the buccal and lingual walls of the tooth. Getting the matrix to seal the buccal and lingual walls of the proximal box required a combination of curling it around the handle of a mirror and using the wings of the separator ring. The new clear bands come in a curved shape, sized to fit large and small molars and premolars, they conform perfectly on the buccal and lingual of the tooth.

Another small challenge with the metal sectional bands was creating the proper shape at the occlusal embrasure. The bands come straight up out of the contact and required the use of a plastic instrument or explorer to open the occlusal embrasure prior to curing the composite. Depending on the success of this process a handpiece and bur might be needed in order to open it enough to floss the contact, a difficult process at best. The new clear bands are pre-curved over the marginal ridge. This built in shape allows the composite to be placed against the band and create a perfect occlusal embrasure and marginal ridge form.

As if these two reasons are not enough to be enamored, the clear bands and accompanying clear wedges allow for light penetration. One of the most challenging places to cure composite is int he depth of the interproximal box. With the band in place the light can be placed on the buccal and lingual for additional curing, and the wedge carries the light along the gingival floor of the interproximal box. These bands in combination with the same great design of separator ring and wedges ensures tight interproximal contacts, minimal trimming of composite at the box margins and less worries about depth of cure, so it’s obvious why I will not be going back to the metal bands.