b. Class II cavity preparations are those that involve the proximal surfaces of
posterior teeth.
c. Class III cavity preparations are one-surface preparations that involve the
proximal surfaces of anterior teeth.
d. Class IV cavity preparations are those that involve the proximal surfaces and
the incisal angle of anterior teeth.
e. Class V cavity preparations are one-surface preparations that involve the
gingival third of the labial, buccal, or lingual surfaces of any teeth.
f. Class VI cavity preparations are those that involve areas not normally affected
by dental caries such as the incisal edges of anterior teeth and the cuspal tips of posterior
teeth. This class is in addition to Dr. G. V. Black's original five classes.
2-4.
FACILITATING PATIENT TREATMENT
In the age of four-handed, sit-down dentistry, a well-trained assistant is an integral
part of a restorative procedure. Part of your responsibility will be to anticipate the dental
officer's next move and have the instruments ready when he needs them. To do this
efficiently, you must have a thorough working knowledge of a variety of restorative
instruments. Your knowledge, combined with practice, will add to the efficiency of the
dental officer and the comfort of the patient by helping treat the patient much more
quickly.
Section II. INSTRUMENTS
2-5.
EXAMINATION AND DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUMENTS
The examination and diagnostic instruments described in Lesson 1 are used in all
treatment areas of the dental service. Mouth mirrors, explorers, cotton pliers, disposable
saliva ejector, periodontal probe, gauze pads, and cotton rolls or cotton dispensers are
the first instruments set out before any dental procedure is begun.
2-6.
LOCAL ANESTHETIC INSTRUMENTS
Local anesthesia is used extensively in restorative dentistry to reduce the pain
associated with these procedures. The instruments and techniques used in administering
a local anesthetic and the duties performed by a dental specialist during this procedure
are described in Lesson 1.
MD0503
2-5