Patent ID: 6712608
Filing Date: 2004-03-30
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
An anatomically contoured matrix band for providing form when filling a tooth, comprising:a strip of flexible material that is sufficiently thin so as to fit between a tooth to be filled and an adjacent tooth; said strip comprising a length, generally defined by a first end and a second end of said strip, in a longitudinal direction sufficient to at least partially wrap around the tooth to be filled; said strip further comprising a height in a latitudinal direction sufficient for said strip to substantially enclose a hollow in a side of the tooth to be filled, said strip having an asymmetric latitudinal curvature while in an initial relaxed condition such that formation of a contact point of a dental restoration on a tooth occurs at an approximately correct anatomical location when said strip is wrapped at least partially around the tooth to be filled, said asymmetric latitudinal curvature spanning at least part of said length of said strip including a location approximately midway between said first and second ends of said strip.