Practice to Practice

Access Granted

I use a lot of high-strength polyethylene fiber–reinforced ribbon for periodontal splints and single-tooth bridges. One problem is how to minimize composite finishing in the hard-to-access gingival embrasure areas. I solve the problem with an anatomic block out by syringing with a small snap-on impression tip on the automixing tip into these embrasure areas with a fast-setting, heavy body PVS impression material after I have etched the teeth. Works like a charm!

Howard E. Strassler, DMD
Baltimore, Maryland

Wardrobe Malfunctions

For your clinical attire, remove all pockets or sew them shut to avoid unwanted problems when items
are left behind and wind up in the washing machine.

John C. Kois, DMD, MSD
Seattle, Washington

Endodontic Hide-and-Seek

To avoid missed canals in molars, a good rule of thumb to follow is to assume that all molars have four canals until proven otherwise. Please remember that mandibular molars are rectangular and maxillary molars are rhomboidal in shape, not triangular. The most commonly missed canal in a maxillary molar is the MB2 canal and in a mandibular molar is a second distal canal. Understanding the anatomy by sectioning numerous extracted teeth and familiarizing oneself with pulpal anatomy is a great step towards being more efficient at access preparation.

Allen Ali Nasseh, DDS, MMSc
Boston, Massachusetts

Submit Your Tip!

Do you have a clever solution for a common problem? Inside Dentistry invites you to share the tips that make your practice run smoothly—ideas for better staff/patient relationships, clinical techniques, organization, and everything in between. Send your submission of 250 words or less to tips@aegiscomm.com and make sure to include your name, practice, and location. Your tip could be published in an upcoming issue!