2-17. AMALGAM RESTORATIONS WITH CEMENT BASE
a. General. Preparing and restoring teeth with silver amalgam is the dental
treatment procedure performed most frequently. The properties of silver amalgam are
determined largely by how it is handled. Optimum properties can be achieved only
through careful attention to details in its preparation and manipulation. Since the dental
specialist normally is responsible for the measurement, preparation, and initial handling of
the material, the manner in which he carries out these procedures can determine the
success of the restoration. In addition, the manner in which he assists the dental officer
in the performance of other steps of the restorative operation influences the quality of the
results.
b. Instrument and Material Setup. The instruments and materials should not be
introduced into the working area until just before they are needed. Instruments used for
preceding steps and no longer needed should be removed from the working area. A
typical setup for a Class II amalgam restoration includes the instruments and equipment
shown in figure 2-29. Class I restorations normally will not require the matrix material.
Figure 2-29. Instruments and materials for Class II amalgam restorations.
MD0503
2-28