AFM – The Average Flat Molar (6.5mm) Anatomic Matrix is the workhorse posterior matrix. It is designed for:
Bicuspids and molars. The patented fully anatomic shape allows the contact to be situated in a more biologically appropriate position. In other words, the rounded gingival embrasure shape will create a contact that is broad from gingival to occlusal so there will be no need to burnish and compromise with a “point” contact that is too far to the occlusal.
You may be surprised how the Bioclear’s; broad contact does not need to be as “tight” as the point contact that is created with traditional matrices and wedges
ACM – The Average Curved Molar (6.5mm) The ACM is for bulbous teeth or can be used to close mild diastemas. AFB and ACB – The average flat bicuspid and average curved bicuspid: At 5mm these matrices are shaped and sized for bicuspids but will come in handy for molars in young patients or patients with short clinical crowns. These will ship in late 2008. TFM, TCM, ETCM and ETFM - These matrices (Tall and Extra Tall at 8mm and 9.25mm) are powerful tools for periodontally involved teeth, endodontic buildup-ups or deep decay on posteriors. Additionally, some clinicians use them for anterior teeth when they want more access for composite placement, due to their more “open” shape. These will ship in mid 2008.
CLINICAL GUIDELINES FOR MATRIX AND INTERPROXIMATOR SELECTION
For small and first time carious lesions: Create saucer prep as outlined in the DVD. Easy clearance must be established with the neighboring tooth. In addition to pre-wedging, the use of a lightening strip to sand the margins of the preparation is highly recommended. This final step of sanding generally guarantees good clearance in addition to creating a perfect bond to enamel just past the margins.
For large lesions, build-ups and retreatment of old amalgams: As with all Bioclear matrices, if there is no cervical undercut because the procedure is located on the flat portion of the tooth (apical to the CEJ) you will need to create a “home” or “nest” for the interproximator by using the matrix’s unique wedge-free capability. Apply and cure a first layer of flowable composite, which will create an undercut at the cervical. Then place the Interproximator. Please review the DVD for specific instructions
In some circumstances if the papilla is too large or the caries is too deep the use of a wedge and a separate ring such as the triodent V-3 can be helpful. Please review DVD
The Bioclear Anterior and Diastema Closure systems do not require a significant change in preparations and restorative techniques. This is not the case with Class II Bioclear restorations. The entire approach is new! If you do not follow the protocol outlined in the DVD, you may experience some frustrations. This could include
a poor contact Interproximator not fully stretched past the gingival margin),
difficulty with placing the interproximator (soap should be applied to isthmus, it makes placement a “breeze”
Fighting the papilla (You must pre-wedge to compress the papilla)
Difficulty seating the matrix (You must have good clearance with the neighboring tooth, if you are cutting a boxy prep, this will be a problem. The saucer prep will, by design, have good clearance from the proximal tooth.
