Product Evaluation

During restorative procedures, precise matrix band placement is crucial for predictable results, yet it’s not always easy to achieve. Hoping to overcome “the poor interproximal contact adaptation” of Tofflemire matrix systems in his Windham, NH, practice, Dr. Christopher Filler discovered that Henry Schein’s CANVAS Disposable Matrix System “created a good seal in the gingival box and a more anatomical contact.”

“The CANVAS Disposable Matrix System merged the benefits of a Tofflemire band and sectional matrix system, reducing the need to switch between systems mid-procedure,” Dr. Filler shared. Overall, he said, “It is much less frustrating to use than Tofflemire or sectional matrix systems.”

Preassembled & Disposable Design

The CANVAS Disposable Matrix System arrives preassembled to save time, ease frustration, and provide predictability. The .04-mm, color-coded, stainless-steel bands are available in both curved or straight options and in narrow or wide sizes.

Lauding it “an easy-to-use, all-in-one system,” Dr. Craig Aebli said, “The universal, preassembled matrix system creates less stress with restorations.” Dr. Christopher Esposito called it “fast, easy, and efficient,” and Dr. Kenneth Chae enjoyed the “simplified setup and time savings.”

“It has always been time-consuming and annoying to place a Tofflemire with a band,” said Dr. Sharde Harvey, but that was not the case while using the CANVAS Disposable Matrix System. “It is great because it’s already set up and ready to go, and it comes in 4 different sizes,” she explained. It saves time, which is “excellent for pediatric patients,” she said, and “helps patients have a more pleasant experience during their visits.”

“Being disposable gives us one less thing to worry about, and it saves time not needing to sterilize an extra instrument,” Dr. Laura Lam revealed, and Dr. Kimberley Bolden noted, “It is very easy to use, and the disposability is a huge plus.”

Ease of Placement & Adjustment

The CANVAS Disposable Matrix System is designed to simplify band placement and adjustment, with a 180° adjustable locking system for precise positioning in any quadrant.

Dr. Mike Glasmeier said the matrix “sped up placement of the band and composite,” allowing him to “place Class II composites in a quick and predictable manner.” Dr. Chae applauded the “easy adaptation and burnishing” that saved time and improved efficiency, and Dr. Daniel Hwang found it especially helpful in cases “where quick isolation and band placement are needed. There’s no worry about the matrix holder pinching the patient’s cheek or lip.”

“I much prefer this style of matrix to a traditional Tofflemire, especially the hinge feature that allows for use in any quadrant without adjustments,” shared Dr. Hwang. While Dr. Robin Henderson found it difficult to place the wedge around the holder,

Dr. Filler commented, “I was impressed by the ability to expand and adapt to anatomically large teeth, which is often a major challenge with a traditional Tofflemire band.” Dr. Aebli said he would like a way “to separate the tightening mechanism from the band when removing it from a tooth.”

Clinical Results

The CANVAS Disposable Matrix System is designed to help create tight, broad interproximal contacts, anatomically correct contours, and tight gingival seals with minimal overhang.

“I liked the anatomical interproximal shape for broader contacts and achieved good contacts with composite resin restorations in all instances,” shared Dr. Aebli. Dr. Rita Sabaitis noticed that “interproximal contacts were broader and tighter.”

Dr. Carrie Niemann called the system “great for terminal teeth and buildups where minimal contact is needed,” and reported “a better contour than a traditional matrix due to the curved shape [of the bands].”

Deeming the product “well worth it as a Tofflemire alternative,” Dr. Esposito said, “It worked well on multiple occasions in Class III composites,” and Dr. Glasmeier reported 20% to 30% time savings when using it to place Class II composites. Dr. Hwang said it assisted with “easy subgingival isolation for marginal elevation prior to sectional matrix placement in cases of extensive caries.”

Having used the matrix on a patient with 10 posterior interproximal restorations, Dr. Filler said, “The follow-up radiographs showed perfect gingival adaptation without any overhangs.” Dr. Bolden noted, “It makes my Class II restorations quite easy.”

Overall Satisfaction

“The CANVAS Disposable Matrix System is great to have in each operatory, and the disposable nature makes it easy to stock,” concluded Dr. Hwang. Compared to a similar matrix system, he said, “If the price is right, I would use this instead because it has the hinge.” Reporting “consistent results using this product,” Dr. Aebli declared, “It worked better than I expected, and I plan on ordering more and using this matrix system in the future.”