Handling protocol of posterior composites--part 3: matrix systems
Strydom, C.
Sadj Journal of the South African Dental Association 61(1): 18 20-1
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1029-4864 PMID: 16562614 Document Number: 604718
Two of the major clinical problems related to direct posterior composite restorations are the clinician's inability to establish an ideal proximal contour and interproximal contact, which, in turn, can lead to continual food impaction and periodontal disease. The reason for this is that composites provide little internal force to counteract the force from the matrix. Therefore, unlike amalgams, which possess a very high resistance to deformation, composites are easily forced back into their original position by a tight circumferential matrix band. Thus, although tight contacts in small-moderate sized cavities may be possible for posterior composites using circumferential matrices, special matrix systems and wedging techniques are being required to establish a proper contact, especially when cavities with a wide buccolingual width are being restored.