Creating Dental Anatomy in Composite with Disposable Tips
One of my goals with composite restorations is to do as much of the forming and shaping prior to picking up a curing light as I can.
The material is easy to sculpt before it is cured, and access to the surface of the tooth is easier with hand instruments. Once I have placed all the composite and have a dense fill, I remove as much of the excess sitting above the final occlusal surface as I can. With this step accomplished, I turn my attention to creating the occlusal anatomy.
My OptraSculpt handle and disposable tips from Ivoclar Vivadent are perfect for this. The various tip shapes allow me to create incline planes, occlusal grooves and the curve of the marginal ridges into the occlusal embrasures. This process often removes and shapes the composite. My assistant holds a two by two that has been moistened with rubbing alcohol to remove the excess off the end of the instrument. I can place a different shape on each end of the instrument, or I can interchange them as I need them.
Using a series of disposable tips enables me to work without the composite sticking. This has reduced the necessity for meticulous management of expensive instruments which frequently need replacement. And, I resist the desire to use dentin adhesive or an unfilled resin on the instrument to reduce sticking.
Related Course
Compromise to Co-Discovery: A Treatment Planning Journey
DATE: December 5 2024 @ 8:00 am - December 7 2024 @ 1:00 pmLocation: The Pankey Institute
CE HOURS: 21
Regular Tuition: $ 2895
Single Occupancy with Ensuite Private Bath (per night): $ 290
The Balance of Communication, Case Planning & Occlusion Dr. Melkers always brings a unique perspective to his workshops and challenges us to the way we think. At Compromise to Co-Discovery,…
Learn More>
I like this instrument for occlusal shaping. I prefer the C-Shape-It instrument with the flat fin shape for smooth surfaces like class IV and V restorations.
https://cshapeit.com/