Preassembled, single-use bands can be used for small and large restorations
Since their introduction in 2012, Pro-Matrix bands from Medicom have been helping dental practices work more efficiently. “Because they’re premade, Pro-Matrix Bands save time,” said Nageen Rak, DDS. Dr. Rak started using the single-use bands in her Gulf Breeze, FL, practice a couple of years ago, and found that she’s reducing chair time. “The bands slide easily through interproximal contacts,” she explained.
Designed for Success
Pre-assembled and designed for single use to protect against contamination, Pro-Matrix bands have a tapered neck that simplifies placement and aids in visibility during procedures. The system can be used for both small and large restorations, reducing practice inventory. The bands come in 2 sizes with a sliding band deflector and a smooth tightening mechanism.
Jeffrey Peifer, DMD, of Gilbert, AZ, another Pro-Matrix user, says he uses the pedo size for all primary Class II restorations and the adult size for crown buildups and when there’s no proximal tooth contact. Dr. Rak says she likes to use the bands on the mandibular arch as well as the maxillary arch. “I can place the band on the mandibular arch, complete that restoration, and then use the same band on the maxillary arch.”
5 REASONS TO TRY
PRO-MATRIX BANDS
1. Preassembly saves preparation time
2. Circumferential band acts as a single solution for both large and small restorations
3. Single-use design protects patients from cross-contamination
4. Tapered neck increases visibility
5. Ease of placement improves patient experience
Patient Comfort
A stressful patient experience during dental procedures can also be stressful for the dentist and staff. Matrix placement, in particular, can be uncomfortable, but the flat contours of Pro-Matrix bands, as well as the smooth tightening mechanism, reduce that discomfort. Dr. Peifer lauded the Pro-Matrix design and said it protects patients’ lips and cheeks during band tightening.
Dr. Rak noted that her pediatric patients are less afraid of the Pro-Matrix bands because they don’t look like a scary metal object. They’re made of smooth plastic that’s easy to insert and remove without pinching.
Simple Solution
Five years ago, Medicom set out to develop a matrix band that meets the evolving needs of dentists, saving them time, reducing inventory, and improving the patient experience. Pro-Matrix saves time throughout restorative procedures—from ease of placement through postprocedure because there’s no sterilization after use; the bands are simply discarded. Because the bands can be used for both small and large restorations, practice inventory becomes much less complicated. And, finally, the unique design makes band placement less stressful both for patients and clinicians.
