(3) However, when you are assigned to a clinic, you may find that these rules
are not always followed or applied as they are described here. For example, the dental
officer might desire to use the retainer in the mouth proper rather than in the vestibule.
However, the majority of dentists will use it according to rules that we have given you.
You may also encounter other matrix retainers. You may find that the dental officer you
are assisting will not always use the number 1 Universal band. There are bands for
molars (larger bands) and for bicuspids (smaller bands). In any case, you must learn how
to assemble the retainer and band. You must also know how to adjust the size of the
band by turning the adjusting screw, which is the inner screw on the retainer, as well as
assembling the set and tightening the band in place. This is done with the securing
screw, which is the outer screw on the retainer. In some instances, the restorative
material may actually be placed before applying the matrix.
e. Preparing Amalgam. The dental specialist then prepares the amalgam in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and general techniques discussed
previously. The manner in which the assistant handles the dental amalgam will have
much to do with the success of the resulting restoration. Correct trituration time and
the best properties.
f. Filling the Cavity. In an amalgam restoration, the amalgam will be prepared
in an amalgamator; the dental officer can place the amalgam into the preparation with the
amalgam carrier. This instrument has a barrel type nib that is used to pick up and
transfer the amalgam from the squeezed cloth to the mouth.
CAUTION:
Remember, never to touch the amalgam with your hands.
(1) Once it is placed in the restoration, the amalgam must be condensed.
This is done with amalgam pluggers. The two pluggers are the Black's number 1 and
number 2. They both have round-shaped plugger ends with the end of the number 2
somewhat larger than the number 1. The alternate pluggers take different shapes on the
working ends. The dental specialist loads the amalgam carrier with the amalgam and
places it in the dental officer's operating hand in the position in which he will carry it to the
tooth. The dental specialist then picks up the first amalgam plugger in his right hand.
When the dental officer is ready for the plugger, the dental specialist takes the amalgam
carrier from him and replaces it with the plugger. While the dental officer is condensing
the first segment of amalgam, the dental specialist loads the carrier with the next
segment. In this way, the cavity is filled segment by segment with the dental specialist
alternately passing the loaded amalgam carrier and appropriate instruments to the hand
of the dental officer.
(2) When the cavity is sufficiently filled, the dental specialist selects the
appropriate carving instruments and hands them one at a time to the dental officer as
needed. The exchange of instruments between the hands of the assistant and operator
is done to keep the dental officer's hands close to the patient's mouth and to foster rapid
and smooth accomplishment of the operative procedure.
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