For all the years I have used sectional matrix bands to place class two composite restorations I have struggled with placing the matrix band between the teeth effectively and efficiently. I have tried straight cotton pliers, angled cotton pliers, hemostats and sometimes resort to using my fingers when all else fails. The problem is the angle and access to the prepared tooth. All of this is happening at the same time that we are trying to maintain isolation, and hoping not to negatively impact the gingival tissue during band placement.
Finally I have a solution for placing sectional matrix bands. The solution came to me, instead of my seeking it out as I had pretty much given up and accepted that this would always be difficult. Dryer Pliers were designed by a dentist. There are two with different angles, one for boxes on the mesial of a tooth and the other angle for boxes on the distal of the tooth. The band is picked up int he pliers on the side that will ultimately be at the occlusal, or marginal ridge portion of the box, and easily placed. No body or hand contortion is required to get it where you need it, FINALLY!
I have to admit that the e-mail I received from the dentist who designed the Drier Pliers sat in my inbox for quite some time before I acted on it. My only excuse is that i get a fair number of e-mails about new dental equipment and materials, and I was pretty resigned to dealing with this issue forever. Thankfully, he was persistent enough that I looked at the website and the video of the pliers and this created enough curiosity that I requested them. The first time I used them I was thrilled, and actually pretty mad at myself for not responding to his e-mail more quickly. As simple as they seem, they solve a daily challenge with ease.
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