Everything About Matrix and Matrix Systems - A Review Article
Everything About Matrix and Matrix Systems - A Review Article
Everything About Matrix and Matrix Systems - A Review Article
e-ISSN: 2279-0853, p-ISSN: 2279-0861.Volume 23, Issue 7 Ser. 9 (July. 2024), PP 28-36
www.iosrjournals.org
Abstract
To realign the tooth with its arch, it is necessary to provide the correct anatomical form and proximal connections.
It stops additional issues with the tooth's position shifting, which lessens food impaction, interproximal caries,
and periodontal issues. For the clinician, making the right contacts can be a very difficult procedure. The best
contacts can be created using a variety of methods and supplies, such as retracting the gingiva to provide
adequate access and visibility throughout the cavity and to provide the right shapes.
Using matrices, wedges, Teflon tapes, etc., perfect connections are constructed. The current narrative review
explains how to establish contact with the many matrices and wedges that are available.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------
Date of Submission: 13-07-2024 Date of Acceptance: 23-07-2024
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------
I. Introduction
Appropriate tooth form and anatomy restoration is required for the lifetime of posterior and anterior
restorations. During the repair of class II cavities, most physicians have significant obstacles in restoring adequate
anatomical proximal contour and tight interproximal contact. The proximal contour of a class II restoration must
mirror the sound tooth to create proper proximal geometry. Maintaining the typical mesiodistal connection
between teeth stabilizes the dental arch, reduces food impaction, safeguards the interdental gingival papilla, and
preserves a healthy periodontium when optimal contact and contour are restored. Malaligned teeth are linked to
improper proximal contact or contour, which can result in food lodgement, halitosis, and the start of dental caries
and periodontal illnesses.1
Regaining the appropriate proximal contact tightness in class II resin composite restorations is one of
the primary problems. The application of rubber dam, the flexibility and thickness of the matrix band, the
incondensability of resin composites, and the volumetric shrinkage that happens during polymerization are some
of the elements that are blamed for this challenge.
A restoration can be contoured using a matrix to mimic the structure of the tooth it is replacing. The
Latin word "Mater," which means "Mother," is the source of the English term matrix. It was first presented by
Dr. Louis Jack in 1871.
According to the definition given with the reconstruction, a dental matrix band is "a properly shaped
piece of metal, or other material, inserted to support and to give form to the restoration during placement and
hardening of the restorative material."2
Dental matrix systems are divided into groups based on the kind of matrix band and the application
method. Matrix systems specifically made for posterior direct resin composite restorations are widely available
on the market. The two most popular ones are the sectional and circumferential matrix systems. The
circumferential matrix band was initially described by Dr. Louis Jack in 1871. Various schemes were introduced
after the Jack matrix. The Tofflemire band and retainer were created in 1946 by Dr. Joseph Tofflemire and are
still in use today. Although circular matrix systems are simple to operate and save time, they typically only
replicate one point of contact rather than an area and are unable to replicate the correct position and tightness of
the contact.3
V. Mylar Strip
Mylar Strip and Pull-Through Technique: Effective for restorations with flat contact regions but challenging
when multiple surfaces need restoration.
Multiple Restorations: Time-consuming and complex, requiring precision and skill to simultaneously manage
various lesions and surfaces.
Class V Cervical Defects: Traditional matrices like Mylar strips are ineffective; specialized techniques and
materials are needed to handle the unique challenges posed by these defects.5
Advantages
• It produces the proper incisal edge shape and length when the palatal surface is restored using a hard matrix,
which is then utilised to direct and support the labial surface composite buildup.
• It aids in controlling the moisture on the palatal surface.
• It can be applied to badly flawed restorations, crowded teeth, and multiple tooth restorations.
• Flexible matrix Mylar strips aid in achieving the best possible labial surface finish and optimal attractive
anatomic contour when employed in the labial surface buildup.
Disadvantages
• Flexibility can lead to inaccurate contour and contact establishment in severe defect restorations, making it
difficult to obtain precise contour in the palatal aspect of restorations.
Indication:
Suitable for Anterior Restorations Such as Class III and IV Crowns and Composite Veneers
1. Class III Restorations: These involve cavities located on the interproximal surfaces of anterior teeth (incisors
and canines) that do not include the incisal edge. The use of appropriate matrices ensures proper contouring
and contact, which is crucial for both function and aesthetics.
2. Class IV Restorations: These involve the interproximal surfaces of anterior teeth that include the incisal edge.
Matrices help in reconstructing the lost tooth structure, ensuring the restored tooth maintains its natural shape
and strength.
3. Composite Veneers: For improving the appearance of anterior teeth by covering imperfections such as
discoloration, chips, or minor misalignments. Using matrices in these procedures helps achieve a smooth, even
surface and ensures that the veneers blend seamlessly with the natural teeth.
Produces the Correct Anatomical Curvature in Both Gingivo-Incisal and Facial-Lingual Orientations
When Properly Inserted
Applications:
Direct Composite Veneers
o Direct Composite Veneers: This system is highly suitable for the application of direct composite veneers,
where composite resin is applied directly to the tooth surface to improve its aesthetics and function. The Unica
Anterior Matrix helps in achieving a smooth and even veneer surface, ensuring that the composite material is
correctly shaped and contoured to match the natural tooth anatomy.
Advantages:
Simultaneous Restoration of Proximal and Cervical Margins
o Efficiency: The Unica Anterior Matrix system allows for the simultaneous restoration of both proximal and
cervical margins. This improves efficiency by reducing the number of steps and simplifying the procedure,
leading to shorter chair times and increased patient comfort.
o Accuracy: Achieving a proper contour in both proximal and cervical areas simultaneously ensures a more
accurate and natural restoration. This is crucial for maintaining the tooth’s function and appearance.
Palodent 360
The Palodent 360 is a new circumferential matrix system designed to establish tight contacts with
anatomically natural curves without needing a retainer or applicator. Its integrated tightener/retainer eliminates
the need for bulky retainers or additional placement and tightening tools. This design improves efficiency,
simplifies placement, provides better access and a clear view of the operative field, and enhances patient
comfort.14
Pro-Matrix Curve18
The Pro-Matrix Curve utilizes a straight band that extends from the side casing. To create the necessary
conical shape, a "band deflector" component is used, which can be adjusted up and down, allowing the device to
be employed in all four quadrants of the mouth.
Features:
Freely Rotating While Tightening: The device turns freely during tightening and has a slim body and toggle
that do not extend.
Versatile Use: The circumferential band can be used for both proximal and cuspal restorations.
No Assembly Required: The Pro-Matrix Curve requires no assembly or additional tools for application.
High-Tension Mechanism: Its high-tension mechanism enhances compacting of the restorative material.
Customizable Fit: Easily adjustable to match the shape of the tooth.
Improved Visibility and Comfort: The narrow front section of the matrix enhances visibility and patient
comfort.
Quadrant Versatility: Suitable for restoring cavities in all quadrants with any restorative material.
Ease of Use: Wedges and rubber dams can be easily placed.19
SuperMat20
The SuperMat is a Universal Matrix Tensioning System designed for large areas and is compatible with
both transparent and steel posterior matrices. It offers a quick, simple, and uniform application process. According
to statistical data, its thin and distinctive Adapt Super Cap ring matrices are specifically engineered for better
adaptation to the tooth structure. The Super Cap is available in steel or transparent plastic, with two band heights
and a single shape suitable for both molars and premolars. Additionally, the Super Cap spool can be used to adapt
and utilize Kerr’s matrices with the SuperMat system.16
steel. The plastic tines accommodate the wedge and are wider, allowing the ring to contact more tooth structure
buccally and lingually, resulting in a precise contour for the restoration. The system offers various types of
matrices.
Available Wedges:
• Wave Wedge with Wedge Guard
• V-Wedge
• Adaptive Wedges: Transparent options for improved visibility and adaptation
Features:
o Silicone-coated tines offer strong support and shape for the band in wide proximal preparations.
o The soft face replicates the interproximal area between teeth, allowing the band to conform accurately to the
tooth contour and eliminate flash.
o The slotted bottom is designed to fit directly over the wedge, ensuring secure placement.
Disadvantages:
• Stacking rings, such as placing one ring over another for MOD restorations, poses a challenge.
• Since the contact rings are made of stainless steel, repeated use and sterilization cause them to lose their
springiness over time.
• The system is expensive.
• Rings may collapse or become displaced in the case of wide proximal boxes
Composi-Tight 3D-Fusion24
The Composi-Tight 3D-Fusion system features variations in tine curvature and wide ring separators,
complemented by ultra-adaptive wedges.
Contents:
• 1 Short ring (blue)
• 1 Tall ring (orange)
• 1 Wide prep ring (green)
• 70 Assorted matrix bands
• 80 Assorted ultra-adaptive wedges
• 12 Assorted fender wedges
• 1 Ring placement forceps
Advantages:
• Allows curing light application from both buccal and lingual surfaces without obstruction from metal matrix
bands and opaque separator rings.
• Ensures proper curing of deeper proximal boxes and bulk-filling Class II restorations.
Kit Contents:
• Composi-Tight 3D XR ring (3DXR)
• Composi-Tight 3D clear ring (3D600)
• Clear bicuspid bands
• Clear molar bands
• Clear tall molar bands
• Assorted clear wedge wands
• Assorted fender wedges
• Ring placement forceps
Indications:
• Suitable for small to moderate Class II cavities involving one or both proximal surfaces in posterior teeth.
• Applicable for both amalgam and composite restorations.
Advantages:
• Easy to use with good visibility.
• Anatomic contour of bands ensures optimal contact areas and embrasures.
• Exerts minimal tension on teeth, providing greater patient comfort.
• Pre-wedging is not required.
• Adequate contact dimensions in the correct anatomic location.
• Promotes good gingival adaptation of the restoration.
Special Features:
• Rings have hugging silicone tips for flash removal.
• Matrix bands are tinted blue to enhance visualization.
• Cure-through WedgeWands allow curing light to penetrate directly to the critical gingival floor
Advantages:
Delivers predictable, tight, and broad proximal contacts.
Minimizes flash and eliminates composite overhang.
Accommodates wide Class II restorations, including cases with full cusp loss.
Maintains consistent separating force, eliminating the need for additional tension.
Clinical Steps for Placing Sectional Matrices to Achieve Optimal Contacts in Challenging Situations: 27
Preparation of the Operatory Field:
This is the most critical step. Proper isolation is necessary to ensure good access and visibility for the
operator. A rubber dam should be used with a large metallic frame. For molars, the clamp should be placed as far
back as possible, while for premolars, it should be placed at least two teeth distally from the tooth being restored.
This positioning prevents interference with the proper placement of the wedge, matrix, or ring. For additional
isolation, a gingival or liquid dam can also be utilized. According to a Cochrane study by Wang Y. et al., isolating
the tooth with a rubber dam may be essential for restoring the tooth with resin composite. While there was no
strong evidence to suggest that using a rubber dam improves the survival rate of restorations, it remains an
important practice during restorative treatments. Clinicians should continue to practice rubber dam placement, as
never using a rubber dam is not an acceptable approach.
Pre- wedging
Before removing decayed tissue, using protective wedges or wedge guards with a metal fin is essential
to prevent damage to the adjacent tooth wall. Achieving separation greater than the matrix thickness is crucial for
proper placement, which is why using wide A+ Wedges inserted with a curved mosquito hemostat is
recommended to ensure firm pressure and control gingival bleeding.
Due to their thin nature, sectional matrices can easily deform. Inserting the wedge can create a gap
between the rubber dam and the tooth contour at that level. Another method to achieve separation is by placing
an orthodontic separator a few days prior to the procedure. Anatomically hard wooden wedges are preferred as
they produce the most pronounced separation effect. These wedges absorb water, causing them to expand (swell),
whereas soft wooden wedges become weaker and more flexible, reducing the separation effect.
Space Evaluation
Volumetric harmony of the interproximal area is crucial for a functional Class II composite restoration.
Before placing the matrix band, the available interproximal space must be assessed. If the proximal surface of the
adjacent tooth is over-contoured, it should be corrected to prevent inverted anatomy and the formation of a
deficient contact area. If necessary, the proximal contour of the adjacent tooth can be adjusted using abrasive
disks in the middle and occlusal thirds. In the cervical third, a reciprocating handpiece with diamond-coated files
and/or abrasive strips can be used.28
XIV. Summary
Dentists strive to design restorations that maintain the tooth's functionality, integrity, and durability.
Advances in materials, accessories, techniques, and the training of dental graduates have rapidly evolved the
science of posterior, direct placement restorative technology. Proper restoration of anatomical landmarks is
essential to maintain occlusal harmony and extend the longevity of restorations.
A critical step in placing restorations is the selection and use of the appropriate matrix. Matrices should
be chosen based on their design to ensure ease of use and the creation of optimal contacts and contours. Dentists
must select the best approach for each case, considering its specific requirements. Currently, pre-contoured
sectional matrices and contact rings for composite restorations meet most criteria for achieving ideal contacts and
shapes. For amalgam restorations, the universal matrix system is preferred.
Clinicians must have a comprehensive understanding of the anatomical and functional characteristics of
contacts and contours to accurately recreate them with the best restorative materials. This knowledge helps
maintain the health of the oral cavity.
Reference
[1] Oh Sh, Nakano M, Bando E, Shigemoto S Kori M. Evaluation Of Proximal Tooth Contact Tightness At Rest And During
Clenching. J Oral Rehabil. 2004;31:538-545.
[2] Dorfer Ce, Von Bethlenfalvy Er, Staehle Hj, Pioch T. Factors Influencing Proximal Dental Contact Strengths. Eur J Oral Sci.
2000;108:368-377.
[3] Southard T, Southard K, Tolley E. Variation Of Approximal Tooth Contact Tightness With Postural Change. J Dent Res.
1990;69:1779
[4] Barnes Dm, Blank Lw, Thompson Vp, Et Al. A 5- And 8-Year Clinical Evaluation Of A Posterior Composite Resin. Quintessence
Int. 1991;22(2):143-151.
[5] Peumans M, Van Meerbeek B, Asscherickx K, Et Al. Do Condensable Composites Help To Achieve Better Proximal Contacts?
Dent Mater. 2001;17(6):533-541.
[6] Brunsvold Ma, Lane Jj. The Prevalence Of Overhanging Dental Restorations And Their Relationship To Periodontal Disease. J
Clin Periodontol. 1990;17(2):67-72.
[7] Hancock Eb, Mayo Cv, Schwab Rr, Wirthlin Mr. Influence Of Interdental Contacts On Periodontal Status. J Periodontol.
1980;51(8):445-449.
[8] Raghu R, Srinivasan R. Optimizing Tooth Form With Direct Posterior Composite Restorations. J Conserv Dent. 2011;14:330–6.
[9] Loomans Bac, Opdam Njm, Roeters Fjm, Bronkhorst Em, Plasschaert Ajm. The Long-Term Effect Of A Composite Resin
Restoration On Proximal Contact Tightness. J Dent. 2007;35:104–8.
[10] Ferracane Jl. Resin Composite - State Of The Art. Dent Mater. 2011;27:29–38.
[11] Sadaf De, Ahmad M, Gaikwad R, Arjumand B. Comparison Of Two Different Matrix Band Systems In Restoring Two Surface
Cavities In Posterior Teeth Done By Senior Undergraduate Students At Qassim University, Saudi Arabia: A Randomized
Controlled Clinical Trial. Indian J Dent Res. 2018;29:459–64.
[12] Lynch Cd, Wilson Nhf. Managing The Phase-Down Of Amalgam: Part I. Educational And Training Issues. Br Dent J.
2013;215:109–13.
[13] Dörfer Ce, Schriever A, Heidemann D, Staehle Hj, Pioch T. Influence Of Rubber-Dam On The Reconstruction Of Proximal
Contacts With Adhesive Tooth-Colored Restorations. J Adhes Dent. 2001;3:169–75.
[14] Rau Pj, Pioch T, Staehle Hj, Dörfer Ce. Influence Of The Rubber Dam On Proximal Contact Strengths. Oper Dent. 2006;31:171–
5.
[15] Kim Hs, Na Hj, Kim Hj, Kang Dw, Oh Sh. Evaluation Of Proximal Contact Strength By Postural Changes. J Adv Prosthodont.
2009;1:118–23.
[16] Akhtar Q, Danyal S, Zareen S, Ahmed B, Maqsood M, Azad Aa. Clinical Evaluation Of Proximal Contact Points In Fixed
Prostheses. J Coll Physicians Surg Pakistan. 2015;25:702– 4.
[17] Hickel R, Peschke A, Tyas M, Mjör I, Bayne S, Peters M, Et Al. Fdi World Dental Federation: Clinical Criteria For The Evaluation
Of Direct And Indirect Restorations-Update And Clinical Examples. Clin Oral Investig. 2010;14:349–66.
[18] Patel F, Chokshi P, Patel M, Bhatt R, Patel U. Assessment Of Clinical Efficacy And Patient Comfort Using Three Different Matrix
Systems For Restoring Two Surface Lesions In Primary Molars : An In Vivo Study. J Costal Life Med. 2023;11:491–500.
[19] Sancakli Hs, Yildiz E, Bayrak I, Ozel S. Effect Of Different Adhesive Strategies On The Post-Operative Sensitivity Of Class I
Composite Restorations. Eur J Dent. 2014;8:15–22.
[20] Demarco Ff, Cenci Ms, Lima Fg, Donassollo Ta, André D De A, Leida Fl. Class Ii Composite Restorations With Metallic And
Translucent Matrices: 2-Year Follow-Up Findings. J Dent. 2007;35:231–7.
[21] Loomans Bac, Opdam Njm, Roeters Fjm, Bronkhorst Em, Burgersdijk Rcw, Dörfer Ce. A Randomized Clinical Trial On Proximal
Contacts Of Posterior Composites. J Dent. 2006;34:292–7.
[22] Khan Fr, Umer F, Rahman M. Comparison Of Proximal Contact And Contours Of Premolars Restored With Composite
Restoration Using Circumferential Matrix Band With And Without Separation Ring: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J
Prosthodont Restor Dent. 2013;3:7–13.
[23] Teich St, Joseph J, Sartori N, Heima M, Duarte S. Dental Floss Selection And Its Impact On Evaluation Of Interproximal Contacts
In Licensure Exams. J Dent Educ. 2014;78:921–6.
[24] Hickel R, Mesinger S, Opdam N, Loomans B, Frankenberger R, Cadenaro M, Et Al. Revised Fdi Criteria For Evaluating Direct
And Indirect Dental Restorations—Recommendations For Its Clinical Use, Interpretation, And Reporting. Clin Oral Investig.
2023;27:2573–92.
[25] Cenci Ms, Lund Rg, Pereira Cl, De Carvalho Rm, Demarco Ff. In Vivo And In Vitro Evaluation Of Class Ii Composite Resin
Restorations With Different Matrix Systems. J Adhes Dent. 2006;8:127–32.
[26] Bhatia Hp, Sood S, Sharma N, Singh A, Rajagopal V. Comparative Evaluation Of Clinical Efficiency And Patient Acceptability
Toward The Use Of Circumferential Matrix And Sectional Matrix For Restoration Of Class Ii Cavities In Primary Molars: An In
Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent. 2021;14:748–51.
[27] Peumans M, Van Meerbeek B, Asscherickx K, Simon S, Abe Y, Lambrechts P, Et Al. Do Condensable Composites Help To
Achieve Better Proximal Contacts? Dent Mater. 2001;17:533–41.
[28] Loomans Bac, Opdam Njm, Roeters Fjm, Bronkhorst Em, Burgersdijk Rcw. Comparison Of Proximal Contacts Of Class Ii Resin
Composite Restorations In Vitro. Oper Dent. 2006;31:688–93.