Learning Center

When a FitStrip is used in a curved position, proper lateral pressure must be maintained (pressure against the tooth following the curvature of the strip) or the strip will "bunch up", subsequently bending a small portion at either end of the strip past its breaking point.

The stiff nature of the Fusion Anterior matrices will maintain proper interproximal anatomy regardless of how firmly composite is compressed into the restoration. Mylar is easily distorted, thereby necessitating difficult adjustments to critical interpoximal areas.

Yes. The FitStrip handle properly attaches to all the abrasive strips within the FitStrip line.

Composi-Tight was designed, developed and tested for use with composite. Due to the exceptional, tight contacts produced by this system it is not recommended for amalgam. Use SlickBands or ReelMatrix for amalgam restorations.

We strongly recommend that you use Garrison ring placement forceps. They are specially designed to open our rings and for ease of use. Rubber dam forceps do not fit the rings well and you will not be able to open the ring wide enough in many cases.

Providing “pre-separation” will help. The preferred method is to use a Garrison FenderWedge during tooth preparation. The FenderWedge will start to separate the teeth while you are cutting the preparation. When the prep is complete, remove the FenderWedge and immediately place the matrix band. Using a traditional wedge for pre-separation will also work, but it will not protect the adjacent tooth from accidental burr contact. Alternatively, placement of a matrix ring on the tooth for a few minutes prior to matrix band placement will also produce separation. After the ring has been in place for a few minutes, remove the ring and immediately place the matrix band.

Use of a non-stick coated matrix band will greatly simplify matrix band removal. Additionally, our Matrix Forceps (BFA-1) with their carbide teeth, provide excellent grip on ultra-thin matrices for easier removal.

Only Garrison matrix rings are designed with a firm core that directs the ring tension interproximally where it produces more separation. Only our rings have soft silicone on the face of the tines to “hug” the matrix band to the tooth. Flash is virtually eliminated. And only 3DXR, 3D Fusion, and Strata-G rings are designed to tenaciously grip virtually any tooth preventing ring “spring-off”.

It is the combination of the separating force produced by both the ring and the wedge that stretches the periodontal ligament. Reducing the size of the wedge will lighten the contacts. Contacts that are too tight can be lightened with the use of a fine diamond finishing strip.

Composi-Tight matrix bands can be burnished further than a traditional matrix, but if the distance is too far you will need to employ one of the larger, wider matrices.