iMatrix™ Clear Sectional Matrix System: Ideal for Class II Restorations

As a second-generation dentist with more than 45 years' experience in the profession, Howard S. Glazer, DDS, FAGD, readily admits that some profound developments allow today's clinicians to "work smarter, not harder."

"The marketplace has been and continues to be quite prolific in providing new materials that increase our abilities to provide excellent oral healthcare in an efficient and productive manner," he says.

Glazer, who in addition to maintaining a private practice is an attending dentist at Englewood Hospital Medical Center in Englewood, New Jersey, says one excellent example of this type of innovation is Pac-Dent's iMatrix^™ Clear Sectional Matrix System, an ideal solution for tedious Class II restorations.

"Upon trying the new kit of the iMatrix Clear Sectional Matrix System, I recognized almost immediately that this system would be a wonderful addition to my operative procedures involving Class II restorations, since I would be able to uniformly photocure directly through the matrix band, wedge, and even the ring," Glazer explains. "I feel secure knowing that my curing light is penetrating through these elements unlike when using other rings, wedges, or metal sectional bands.

"In particular, the clear mylar sectional bands provide optimal contours that are more polished and finished," Glazer says. He adds that the clear nickel titanium (NiTi) matrix rings with a unique undercut design allow for better handling and greater visibility while being strong enough to avoid slipping and provide consistent, ideal tooth separation. "Lastly, the ‘M' shaped tines on the rings allow for better placement of their clear wedges. The kit itself is compact and fits nicely on the tray set-up."

In the past, Glazer acknowledges, properly and completely photocuring resin restorative material around the marginal interface with the tooth could be problematic. He remembers using two curing lights, one held by him and the other by his assistant, to simultaneously cure from both the buccal and lingual aspects of the tooth. The iMatrix Clear Sectional Matrix System, he says, alleviates that problem.

"The system allows for uniformity of photocuring, providing more certainty that the resin has fully cured," he notes. "The iMatrix Clear NiTi matrix ring offers greater visibility and can be stacked for MOD and multiple restorations. Also, the clear mylar sections are sturdy so that they will not fold, crinkle, or distort, thereby allowing for ideal contact and marginal ridges. And, of course, the clear wedges will not interfere with light curing and fit nicely with the rings to ensure a tight seal with the matrix."

As an experienced clinician who takes pride in utilizing new and cutting-edge products, Glazer summarizes: "The iMatrix Clear Sectional Matrix System is a welcome addition to the armamentarium needed by restorative dentists to provide high-quality restorations."

Howard S. Glazer, DDS
Private Practice, Fort Lee, New Jersey; Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry

Pac-Dent
909-839-0888
pac-dent.com