Patent Publication Number: US-11382717-B2

Title: Devices and a seamless, single load cavity preparation and filing technique

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/094,660 filed Apr. 8, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/834,907 filed Aug. 7, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,308,058 which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/844,333 filed Sep. 13, 2006 and from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/887,291 filed Jan. 30, 2007. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH 
     Not Applicable. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth and for dental matrices, dental wedges, interdental matrix stabilizers, dental separator rings, dental curing light devices, and kits that may be used in the methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Dental cavities that have spread to the dentin or have undergone cavitation are typically treated by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and thereafter filling the missing tooth structure with a restorative material such as silver (amalgam), white (resin), porcelain, or gold. Cavities that are located adjacent to neighboring teeth are called interproximal cavities. 
     When treating interproximal cavities, the dentist first removes the decayed portion of the side of the tooth. In order to properly deposit the restorative material on the side of the tooth without undesired leaking of the restorative material beyond the side of the tooth, the dentist places a dental matrix around at least a portion of the tooth. The dental matrix may be a metallic or plastic strip, and when the matrix is placed around at least a portion of the tooth, the matrix acts as a form for the desired shape of the restored tooth. Various dental matrix bands are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,712,608, 6,619,956, 6,350,122, 6,142,778, 6,079,978, 5,975,906, 5,807,101, 5,730,592, 5,622,496, 5,501,595, 5,460,525, 5,425,635, 5,114,341, 4,997,367, 4,781,583, 4,718,849, 4,704,087, 4,601,662, 4,553,937, 4,536,155, 4,523,909, 4,024,643, 3,842,505, 3,108,377, and 2,611,182, and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2006/0019217 and 2005/0089814. (These patents and all other patents and publications cited herein are incorporated herein by reference.) The disadvantages of these known matrix bands is that they are not truly anatomic and therefore, they must be conformed to the tooth by pressure or other means. As a result, these matrixes are inefficient in that more dentist time is needed to complete the restoration, and the final result may be a non-anatomic restoration. 
     One or more dental wedges may be used to spread adjacent teeth to allow the dental matrix to be positioned between the adjacent teeth. The dental wedge(s) may also function as a matrix stabilizer that maintains the matrix in a desired position with respect to the tooth to be restored. Various dental wedges are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,890,176, 6,761,562, 6,482,007, 6,435,874, 6,425,760, 6,234,792, 5,527,181, 5,104,317, 4,468,199, 4,337,041, 4,259,070 and D439,667. 
     A dental separator ring may also be used when filling interproximal cavities. The separator ring applies pressure against the adjacent teeth to force the adjacent teeth apart to allow a dental matrix to be positioned between the adjacent teeth. The dental separator ring may also include specially configured ends that also function as a matrix stabilizer that maintains the matrix in a desired position with respect to the tooth to be restored. Example dental separator rings can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,325,625, 6,206,697 and 5,607,302. 
     A dentist may choose to use curable restorative material to fill the interproximal cavity. Many curable dental restorative materials harden by polymerization reactions initiated by ultraviolet light or blue wavelengths. After placing curable restorative material between the matrix and the tooth being restored and in contact with the tooth being restored, the dentist uses a dental curing light device to direct light onto the curable restorative material to initiate polymerization of the curable restorative material. The curable restorative material then hardens in the cavity. Example dental lights and light curing devices can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,097,364, 6,976,841, 6,155,823, 6,162,055, and 5,017,140 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2006/0275733, 2006/0275732, 2006/018835, 2006/0155171, 2006/0154197, 2006/0110700, 2006/0088798, 2004/0229186 and 2004/0053189. 
     Even though various dental matrices, dental wedges and dental curing light devices are available, there is a still a need for improved methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth and for improved dental matrices, dental wedges, interdental matrix stabilizers, separator rings, dental curing light devices, and kits that may be used in methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention meets the foregoing needs by providing improved methods, dental matrices, dental wedges, interdental matrix stabilizers, dental separator rings, dental curing light devices, and kits for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth. 
     The invention provides a method for the restoration of a tooth having an original shape including a top surface and an interproximal surface. In the method, a portion of the top surface of the tooth and a portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth are removed using conventional dental instruments to form a hollow cavity preparation that extends from the top surface to the interproximal surface of the tooth. The hollow cavity preparation is preferably saucer shaped wherein the cavity preparation does not extend inward more than two millimeters from the interproximal surface of the tooth. The removed portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth is then surrounded with a sectional translucent (preferably transparent) anatomic dental matrix. The actual anatomic shapes of the matrix are created from scans of natural teeth, molds of natural teeth, and/or molds of tooth models. Thus, by “anatomic”, it is meant that the matrix has an inner surface that conforms to the shape of the outer surface of the region of the natural tooth being restored. 
     A lightly filled or unfilled light curable resin tooth bonding agent is then applied to the tooth covering the entire cavity preparation. The resin tooth bonding agent is then air thinned except on the tooth surface where a small pool of resin tooth bonding agent is maintained. The resin tooth bonding agent is not light cured at this point. A light-curable flowable composite is injected into the cavity preparation to create a pool of the flowable composite and the tooth bonding agent in the cavity preparation. A light-curable paste composite resin is then extruded into the pool of the flowable composite and the tooth bonding agent before light curing the pool of the flowable composite. The flowable composite and the paste composite resin and the tooth bonding agent contained in the cavity preparation are then light cured simultaneously. The result is an injection molded restoration. Optionally, a curable base material can be loaded into deeper cavity preparations to cover the dentin. The curable base material is cured before beginning the injection molding process. Preferably, the cured base material is about two millimeters from the projected outer tooth surface of the restoration. 
     In one version of the method, a pre-wedging step occurs in that a wedge is inserted between the interproximal surfaces of the teeth before beginning the cavity preparation. This creates a gap between the interproximal surface of the tooth being restored and the interproximal surface of a second tooth, and also protects and compresses the soft tissue and rubber dam. The wedge is removed, and thereafter the removed portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth is surrounded with the matrix. A translucent elastic matrix stabilizer can also be positioned in contact with the matrix to maintain contact of the matrix with the tooth being restored. A separator ring can also be positioned in contact with the matrix stabilizer to create separation between the interproximal surface of the tooth being restored and an interproximal surface of a second tooth adjacent the tooth being restored. 
     During the curing process, light is directed at the top surface of the tooth, the buccal portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth, and the lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth. Preferably, curing light is simultaneously directed at the buccal portion and the lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth. 
     Thus, in the method of the invention, a single load of restorative material can be cured in a single step to produce a seamless cavity restoration. 
     In one aspect, the invention provides a method for the restoration of a tooth having an original shape including a top surface and an interproximal surface. In the method, a portion of the top surface of the tooth and a portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth are removed to form a hollow cavity preparation which extends from the top surface to the interproximal surface of the tooth. The removed portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth is surrounded with a matrix. A light-curable resin tooth bonding agent is placed into the cavity preparation. A light-curable flowable composite is then injected into the cavity preparation to create a pool of the flowable composite in the cavity preparation. A light-curable paste composite resin is then extruded into the pool of the flowable composite before light curing the pool of the flowable composite. The bonding agent and the flowable composite and the paste composite resin contained in the cavity preparation are then simultaneously light cured. 
     The dental practitioner may utilize an acid etching step with liquid and/or gel phosphoric acid treatment before placing the bonding agent into the cavity preparation. Preferably, the bonding agent is self-etching. The method can include a pre-wedging step including inserting a wedge pre-operatively between the interproximal surface of the tooth being restored and an interproximal surface of a second tooth adjacent the tooth being restored to separate the tooth being restored and the second tooth and to protect non-diseased surfaces between the interproximal surface of the tooth being restored and the interproximal surface of the second tooth. The cavity preparation can then be formed, and the wedge removed. 
     The dental practitioner may position a translucent elastic matrix stabilizer in contact with the matrix to maintain contact of the matrix with the tooth being restored and/or to create separation of the teeth. The dental practitioner may also position a separator ring with a transparent and anatomic interproximal zone in contact with the matrix stabilizer and matrix to create separation between the interproximal surface of the tooth being restored and an interproximal surface of a second tooth adjacent the tooth being restored. 
     In the light curing step, the dental practitioner may simultaneously direct light at the top surface of the tooth, at a buccal portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth, and at a lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth. Alternatively, the dental practitioner may direct light at the top surface of the tooth, and then thereafter simultaneously direct light at a buccal portion and a lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth. In one exemplary version of the method, light is directed from a first light guide at a buccal portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth, and directed from a second light guide at a lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth, wherein the first light guide and the second light guide are hinged at a dental curing light housing. 
     The hollow cavity preparation is preferably saucer shaped. Preferably, the cavity preparation does not extend inward more than two millimeters from the interproximal surface of the tooth. Preferably, the hollow cavity preparation is saucer shaped and in an occlusal view has a first serpentine outline from a first cavity margin to an intermediate point of the cavity preparation and has a second serpentine outline from a second cavity margin to the intermediate point of the cavity preparation. Preferably, the hollow cavity preparation is saucer shaped and in a gingival view has a first serpentine outline from a first cavity margin to an intermediate point of the cavity preparation and has a second serpentine outline from a second cavity margin to the intermediate point of the cavity preparation. Preferably, the hollow cavity preparation is saucer shaped and in a buccal view has a first serpentine outline from a first cavity margin to an intermediate point of the cavity preparation and has a second serpentine outline from a second cavity margin to the intermediate point of the cavity preparation. Preferably, the hollow cavity preparation is saucer shaped and in a lingual view has a first serpentine outline from a first cavity margin to an intermediate point of the cavity preparation and has a second serpentine outline from a second cavity margin to the intermediate point of the cavity preparation. Preferably, the hollow cavity preparation is saucer shaped in an occlusal view, and/or buccal view, and/or lingual view, and/or gingival view. 
     Various forms of the matrix are suitable for the method. For example, the matrix can be translucent, sectional, and/or anatomically shaped. The matrix can be tooth specific, or the matrix can be tooth type specific, or the matrix can be tooth surface specific. 
     In one exemplary version of the method, further flowable composite and/or paste composite resin are not added after the first load of flowable composite and paste composite resin such that the method produces a single cured layer load and layer of flowable composite and paste composite resin. Advantageously, the filled cavity preparation is seamless, injection molded, and/or not layered. In another version of the method, a curable base/liner material is loaded into the cavity preparation, the base/liner material is cured, and thereafter the light-curable flowable composite is injected into the cavity preparation to create the pool of the flowable composite in the cavity preparation. Preferably, an external surface of the cured base/liner material is two millimeters or less from a projected external interproximal filling surface of the tooth. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a first embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer includes an elongated elastic body having a first end portion, a second opposite end portion, a middle portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion, a first side surface, a second side surface, a top surface and a bottom surface. The first end portion has a first throughhole extending from the top surface to the bottom surface, and the second end portion has a second throughhole extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The first end portion includes an area of material weakness extending toward the top surface and extending toward the bottom surface and extending toward a first end surface of the body whereby the first end portion can be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area of material weakness, which can extend from the first throughhole to the first end surface of the body. Preferably, the body comprises a translucent material. Most preferably, the body comprises a translucent material. Also, the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer can be made with translucent elastomeric material with a round and/or tapered cross section. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer can be used in place of traditional wooden, plastic or rubber wedges and also allows for better photon transfer from a curing light. Preferably, the second end portion includes a second area of material weakness extending toward the top surface and extending toward the bottom surface and extending toward a second end surface of the body whereby the second end portion can be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the second area of material weakness. 
     In one exemplary form, the top surface of the body includes a first pair of upper side-by-side depressions in the middle portion of the body, and the bottom surface of the body includes at least one concavity in the middle portion of the body. In another exemplary form, the first pair of upper side-by-side depressions include an inwardly curved inner surface, and the bottom surface of the body includes a concavity having an inwardly curved inner surface. In yet another exemplary form, the first side surface of the body includes a first curved protrusion located near an intermediate vertical plane of the body. In still another exemplary form, the first side surface of the body includes a first curved protrusion located near the first throughhole, and the second side surface of the body includes a second curved protrusion located near the second throughhole. 
     In yet another exemplary form, the first side surface of the body includes a first curved protrusion located near the first throughhole, and the second side surface of the body includes a second curved protrusion located near the first throughhole. In still another exemplary form, the separate end members have a rectangular vertical cross-section. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a second embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer includes an elongated elastic body having a first end portion, a second opposite end portion, a middle portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion, a first side surface, a second side surface, a top surface and a bottom surface. The first side surface of the body includes a first outwardly extending protrusion on the first end portion wherein the first outwardly extending protrusion is spaced inward from a first end surface of the body. The first side surface of the body further includes a second outwardly extending protrusion on the second end portion wherein the second outwardly extending protrusion is spaced inward from a second end surface of the body. Preferably, the body comprises a translucent material. 
     In one exemplary form, the first end portion includes a first section adjacent the first outwardly extending protrusion and a second section connected to the first section of the first end portion opposite the first outwardly extending protrusion wherein the second section of the first end portion extends laterally outward from the first section of the first end portion, and the second end portion includes a first section adjacent the second outwardly extending protrusion and a second section connected to the first section of the second end portion opposite the second outwardly extending protrusion wherein the second section of the second end portion extends laterally outward from the first section of the second end portion. Preferably, the second section of the first end portion is generally disc shaped, and the second section of the second end portion is generally disc shaped. Preferably, the top surface includes indicia for facilitating placement of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer between approximating teeth with the top surface positioned away from the gingiva. 
     In another exemplary form, the second side surface of the body includes a third outwardly extending protrusion on the first end portion, and the second side surface of the body further includes a fourth outwardly extending protrusion on the second end portion. In yet another exemplary form, the first end portion includes an area of material weakness extending toward the top surface and extending toward the bottom surface and extending toward a first end surface of the body whereby the first end portion can be separated into separate first end members by application of a separation force at the area of material weakness, and the second end portion includes a second area of material weakness extending toward the top surface and extending toward the bottom surface and extending toward a second end surface of the body whereby the second end portion can be separated into separate second end members by application of a separation force at the second area of material weakness. Preferably, the first separate end members and the second separate end members have a rectangular vertical cross-section. In still another exemplary form, the first side surface of the body includes a first curved protrusion located near an intermediate vertical plane of the body. In yet another exemplary form, the bottom surface of the body includes a concavity. The concavity can have a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis transverse to the longitudinal axis wherein the longitudinal axis extends toward the first end portion and the second end portion and the longitudinal axis is longer than the lateral axis. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix for providing a form for filling a hollow cavity preparation in a tooth. The matrix includes a curved strip of material. The strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the cavity preparation and a surface of the tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the cavity preparation and the surface of the tooth to create the form for filling the cavity preparation, which may be interproximal. The strip has a horizontally concave side surface and a horizontally convex side surface, and the strip has a base portion and an upper portion integral with and extending upward from the base portion. The concave side surface is anatomic in that the concave side surface has an inner surface that that conforms to the shape of the outer surface of the region of the natural tooth being restored. Also, the concave side surface and the convex side surface can extend from the first end to the second end. A first thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at a first plane horizontal to the strip is less than a second thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at a second plane horizontal to the strip wherein the second plane is below the first plane. 
     In one exemplary form, the horizontally concave side surface forming the base portion is not vertically concave, and the horizontally concave side surface forming the upper portion is vertically concave. In another exemplary form, the strip thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at planes horizontal to the strip decreases from lower to upper sections of the upper portion of the strip. In yet another exemplary form, the concave side surface and the convex side surface extend from the first end to the second end. 
     Preferably, the material of the curved strip is translucent. In one form, the material is metallic. In another form, the material is polymeric. One non-limiting advantage to the translucent sectional matrix is that it allows a single load of composite material, which alleviates both the problems of (i) voids between the two millimeter separately loaded and cured increments required with composite material and a metal matrix and (ii) the additional time wasted to place and light cure several layers of composite filling material. 
     In one exemplary form, the matrix is sectional and anatomically shaped. In another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth specific. In yet another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth type specific. In still another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth surface specific. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix for providing a form for filling a hollow cavity preparation in a tooth. The dental matrix includes a curved strip of material. The strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the cavity preparation and a surface of the tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the cavity preparation and the surface of the tooth to create the form for filling the cavity preparation, which may be interproximal. The strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The first side surface has an intermediate horizontally convex section between a first horizontally concave section and a second horizontally concave section. Preferably, the strip has a base portion and an upper portion integral with and extending upward from the base portion, and the base portion includes the horizontally convex section, the first horizontally concave section and the second horizontally concave section. 
     In one exemplary form, the strip thickness between the first side surface and the second side surface at planes horizontal to the strip decreases from lower to upper sections of the upper portion of the strip. In another exemplary form, the first side surface forming the base portion is not vertically concave, and the second side surface forming the upper portion is vertically concave. In yet another exemplary form, a first thickness between the first side surface and the second side surface at a first plane horizontal to the strip is less than a second thickness between the first side surface and the second side surface at a second plane horizontal to the strip, the second plane being below the first plane. 
     Preferably, the material of the curved strip is translucent. In one form, the material is metallic. In another form, the material is polymeric. 
     In one exemplary form, the matrix is sectional and anatomically shaped. In another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth specific. In yet another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth type specific. In still another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth surface specific. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a dental matrix for providing a form for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a second tooth. The matrix includes a first curved strip of a first material. The first strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the first tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the first tooth to create the form for filling the first interproximal cavity preparation. The first strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The matrix also includes a second curved strip of a second material. The second strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The second strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the second tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the second tooth to create the form for filling the second interproximal cavity preparation. The first curved strip and the second curved strip are joined at a middle portion of the multi-strip matrix, and the middle portion of the matrix has a thickness less than two times a thickness of the first end of the first curved strip. Preferably, the first curved strip and the second curved strip have an arc of less than 270 degrees. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are translucent. The first material and the second material can be metallic, or the first material and the second material can be polymeric. 
     In one exemplary form, the matrix is sectional and anatomically shaped. In another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth specific. In yet another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth type specific. In still another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth surface specific. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip has a first horizontally concave side surface and a first horizontally convex side surface, and the second curved strip has a second horizontally concave side surface and a second horizontally convex side surface. The concave side surfaces of the first and second strip are anatomic in that the concave side surfaces have an inner surface that that conforms to the shape of the outer surface of the region of the natural tooth being restored. Also, the concave side surface and the convex side surface can extend from the first end to the second end of the first strip and the second strip. In another exemplary form, the first strip has a first base portion and a first upper portion integral with and extending upward from the first base portion, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first base portion is not vertically concave, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first upper portion is vertically concave, the second strip has a second base portion and a second upper portion integral with and extending upward from the second base portion, the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second base portion is not vertically concave, and the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second upper portion is vertically concave. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth using this multi-strip matrix. In the method, a matrix stabilizer is placed between an interproximal surface of the first tooth and an interproximal surface of the second tooth, and the multi-strip matrix is placed between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, and the second curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth, and the matrix stabilizer is placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip and in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth using this multi-strip matrix. A matrix stabilizer is placed between an interproximal surface of the first tooth and an interproximal surface of the second tooth. The matrix stabilizer is placed in tension to create a middle portion of decreased cross-section in the matrix stabilizer. The multi-strip matrix is placed between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, and the second curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth, and the matrix stabilizer is placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The tension is then released on the matrix stabilizer such that the matrix stabilizer is placed in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth using this multi-strip matrix. The multi-strip is placed between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed adjacent the interproximal surface of the first tooth and the second curved strip is placed adjacent the interproximal surface of the second tooth. At least one dental wedge is then placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip and in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip thereby biasing the first curved strip into contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, and biasing the second curved strip into contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a dental matrix for providing a form for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a second tooth. The matrix includes a first curved strip of a first material. The first strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the first tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the first tooth to create the form for filling the first interproximal cavity preparation. The first strip has a first side surface and a second side surface, and the first curved strip has a first throughhole. The matrix also includes a second curved strip of a second material. The second strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The second strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the second tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the second tooth to create the form for filling the second interproximal cavity preparation. The second curved strip has a second throughhole. In the matrix, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are joined at a middle portion of the matrix. Preferably, the first curved strip and the second curved strip have an arc of less than 270 degrees. Preferably, the middle portion of the matrix has a thickness less than two times a thickness of the first end of the first curved strip. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are translucent. The first material and the second material can be metallic, or the first material and the second material can be polymeric. 
     In one exemplary form, the matrix is sectional and anatomically shaped. In another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth specific. In yet another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth type specific. In still another exemplary form, the matrix is tooth surface specific. 
     In another exemplary form, the first curved strip has a first horizontally concave side surface and a first horizontally convex side surface, and the second curved strip has a second horizontally concave side surface and a second horizontally convex side surface. In yet another exemplary form, the first strip has a first base portion and a first upper portion integral with and extending upward from the first base portion, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first base portion is not vertically concave, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first upper portion is vertically concave, the second strip has a second base portion and a second upper portion integral with and extending upward from the second base portion, the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second base portion is not vertically concave, and the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second upper portion is vertically concave. In still another exemplary form, the first throughhole and the second throughhole are aligned to create a passageway. In yet another exemplary form, the first throughhole and the second throughhole are aligned, and a membrane is positioned between the first throughhole and the second throughhole. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth using this multi-strip matrix. A matrix stabilizer is placed between an interproximal surface of the first tooth and an interproximal surface of the second tooth. The multi-strip matrix is placed between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, the second curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth, and the matrix stabilizer is placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip and in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth. A matrix stabilizer is placed between an interproximal surface of the first tooth and an interproximal surface of the second tooth. The matrix stabilizer is placed in tension to create a middle portion of decreased cross-section in the matrix stabilizer. The multi-strip matrix is inserted between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, the second curved strip is placed in contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth, and the matrix stabilizer is placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The tension on the matrix stabilizer is released such that the matrix stabilizer is placed in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a method for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in an adjacent second tooth using this multi-strip matrix. The multi-strip matrix is inserted between the first tooth and the second tooth such that the first curved strip is placed adjacent the interproximal surface of the first tooth, and the second curved strip is placed adjacent the interproximal surface of the second tooth. At least one dental wedge is placed between the first curved strip and the second curved strip and in contact with the first curved strip and the second curved strip thereby biasing the first curved strip into contact with the interproximal surface of the first tooth, and biasing the second curved strip into contact with the interproximal surface of the second tooth. The cavity preparations may then be filled. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a dental matrix kit for providing a form for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a second tooth. The matrix kit includes a first curved strip of a first material. The first strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the first tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the first interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the first tooth to create the form for filling the first interproximal cavity preparation. The first strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The matrix kit includes a second curved strip of a second material. The second strip has a first side surface and a second side surface. The second strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and an interproximal surface of the second tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the second interproximal cavity preparation and the interproximal surface of the second tooth to create the form for filling the second interproximal cavity preparation. The second curved strip has a throughhole. Preferably, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are sectional and have an arc of less than 270 degrees. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are translucent. The first material and the second material can be metallic, or the first material and the second material can be polymeric. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are anatomically shaped. In another exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are tooth specific. In yet another exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are tooth type specific. In still another exemplary form, the first curved strip and the second curved strip are tooth surface specific. 
     In one exemplary form, the first curved strip has a first horizontally concave side surface and a first horizontally convex side surface, and the second curved strip has a second horizontally concave side surface and a second horizontally convex side surface. In another exemplary form, the first strip has a first base portion and a first upper portion integral with and extending upward from the first base portion, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first base portion is not vertically concave, the first horizontally concave side surface forming the first upper portion is vertically concave, the second strip has a second base portion and a second upper portion integral with and extending upward from the second base portion, the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second base portion is not vertically concave, and the second horizontally concave side surface forming the second upper portion is vertically concave. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for preparing a form for filling a first hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a first tooth and a second hollow interproximal cavity preparation in a second tooth. In the method, a first horizontally convex side surface of the first curved strip of the dental matrix kit is placed against a second horizontally convex side surface of the second curved strip of the dental matrix kit. A portion of the first curved strip of the dental matrix kit may also be positioned in the throughhole of the second curved strip of the dental matrix kit. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a dental curing light. The curing light includes an electrical power supply, a first light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, and a second light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. The first light guide and the second light guide are connected to a housing, and at least one of the first light guide and the second light guide is hinged to the housing for movement with respect to the housing. Preferably, the first light guide and the second light guide are both hinged to the housing for movement with respect to the housing. 
     In one exemplary form, the first light guide has a first distal tip, the second light guide has a second distal tip, and the first tip and the second tip are angled toward each other. In another exemplary form, the first light guide and the second light guide are normally biased into a relaxed position in which the first distal tip and the second distal tip are a first distance apart, and the first light guide and the second light guide have an outwardly flexed position in which the first distal tip and the second distal tip are a second distance apart, the second distance being greater than the first distance. Preferably, the first distance is about 4 to about 15 millimeters. 
     In one exemplary form, the first light guide is in optical communication with a first light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, the second light guide is in optical communication with a second light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, the first light source is located in the first distal end of the first light guide, and the second light source is located in the second distal end of the second light guide. In another exemplary form, the dental curing light includes a third light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. The third light guide may be hinged at a dental curing light housing. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation. Light is directed from the first light guide of the dental curing light at a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation, light is simultaneously directed from the second light guide of the dental curing light at a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a dental curing light including an electrical power supply, a first light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, a first light transmitting tip connected to a first distal end of the first light guide, the first tip including a first tip section having a diameter less than a diameter of the first distal end of the first light guide, a second light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply and a second light transmitting tip connected to a second distal end of the second light guide, the second tip including a second tip section having a diameter less than a diameter of the second distal end of the second light guide. Preferably, the first tip and the second tip are angled toward each other. 
     In one exemplary form, the first light guide is in optical communication with a first light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, and the second light guide is in optical communication with a second light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. The first light source can be located in the first distal end of the first light guide, and the second light source can be located in the second distal end of the second light guide. 
     In another exemplary form, the first light guide and the second light guide are connected to a housing, and at least one of the first light guide and the second light guide is hinged to the housing for movement with respect to the housing. In yet another exemplary form, the first tip includes a first light transmitting section extending laterally from a base of the first tip section, and the second tip includes a second light transmitting section extending laterally from a base of the second tip section. In still another exemplary form, at least one of the first distal end of the first light guide and the second distal end of the second light guide includes an opening in fluid communication with a source of flowing air. In yet another exemplary form, the dental curing light includes a third light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. Preferably, the third light guide directs light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first light guide. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a dental curing light and related methods for using the dental curing light. The dental curing includes an electrical power supply, and a light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. The curing light also includes a light guide including a proximal section, a first distal section extending from the proximal section, and a second distal section extending from the proximal section. The proximal section is in optical communication with the light source, the first distal section and the second distal section. The first distal section has a first distal end, and the second distal section has a second distal end. 
     The curing light also includes a first light tip having a first base connected to the first distal end of the first distal section of the light guide. The first light tip includes a first hollow tubular opaque body having a first aperture for emitting light. The first body comprises a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the first hollow body can be bent to emit light in a first selected direction from the first aperture. The curing light also includes a second light tip having a second base connected to the second distal end of the second distal section of the light guide. The second light tip includes a second hollow tubular opaque body having a second aperture for emitting light. The second body comprises a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the second hollow body can be bent to emit light in a second selected direction from the second aperture. 
     Preferably, an outside diameter of the first light tip tapers inward from the first base toward the first aperture, and an outside diameter of the second light tip tapers inward from the second base toward the second aperture. The tapered curing light tip adaptors (micro-flex tips) are sized to fit into the narrow area between tooth surfaces and to flex to create better access and patient comfort. Tip to composite surface distance is extremely important to the depth and rate of cure where even a six millimeter distance is extremely important. Current curing light tip sizes are far too large and/or stiff to reach interproximally. In one form, the electrical power supply, the light source and the proximal section of the light guide are encased in a housing. In another form, the electrical power supply and the light source are encased in a housing. The first light tip can by removably connected to the first distal end of the first distal section of the light guide, and the second light tip can be removably connected to the second distal end of the second distal section of the light guide. The tapered curing light tip adaptors (micro-flex tips) are sized to fit into the narrow area between tooth surfaces and to flex to create better access and patient comfort. Tip to composite surface distance is extremely important to the depth and rate of cure where even a six millimeter distance is extremely important. Current curing light tip sizes are far too large and/or stiff to reach interproximally. 
     The dental curing light can be used in a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation, light is directed from the first light tip of the dental curing light at a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation, and light is directed simultaneously from the second light tip of the dental curing light at a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. In the method, the first light tip can be bent such that light can be directed at the buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a dental curing light and related methods for using the dental curing light. The dental curing light includes an electrical power supply, a first light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, a second light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, and a third light guide in optical communication with at least one light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. Preferably, the third light guide directs light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first light guide, and the third light guide directs light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the second light guide. The dental curing light may include a first light transmitting tip connected to a first distal end of the first light guide, and a second light transmitting tip connected to a second distal end of the second light guide wherein the first tip and the second tip are angled toward each other. 
     In one exemplary form, the first light guide is in optical communication with a first light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, and the second light guide is in optical communication with a second light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply, and the third light guide is in optical communication with a third light source in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. Preferably, the first light source is located in a first distal end of the first light guide, and the second light source is located in a second distal end of the second light guide, and the third light source is located in a third distal end of the third light guide. The first light guide and the second light guide can be connected to a housing, and at least one of the first light guide and the second light guide can be movable with respect to the housing. Preferably, the first light guide and the second light guide are both hinged to the housing for movement with respect to the housing. In another exemplary form, a first light transmitting tip is connected to a first distal end of the first light guide, a second light transmitting tip connected to a second distal end of the second light guide, the first light guide and the second light guide are normally biased into a relaxed position in which the first distal tip and the second distal tip are a first distance apart, and the first light guide and the second light guide have an outwardly flexed position in which the first distal tip and the second distal tip are a second distance apart, the second distance being greater than the first distance. Preferably, the first distance is about 4 to about 15 millimeters. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a dental curing light including a housing, an electrical power supply, and an elongated arm extending from the housing. The arm has a distal section that terminates in a distal end wherein the distal section and the distal end define an included angle of greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees. The curing light also includes a support having a base wall, a first wall extending from a first end of the base wall, and a spaced apart second wall extending from a second end of the base wall. The base wall is connected to the distal end of the arm. The curing light also includes a first light source in electrical communication with the power supply. The first light source transmits light away from an inner surface of the base wall. The curing light also includes a second light source in electrical communication with the power supply wherein the second light source transmits light away from an inner surface of the first wall. The curing light also includes a third light source in electrical communication with the power supply wherein the third light source transmits light away from an inner surface of the second wall. The included angle can be about 30 degrees to about 150 degrees. Preferably, the included angle is 60 degrees to about 120 degrees. In one form, the included angle is about 90 degrees. The support can have a generally U-shaped perimeter or a generally V-shaped perimeter. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a separator ring for separating teeth and/or for creating adaptation pressure on an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer and/or a dental matrix. The separator ring includes an elastic metallic body that terminates in a pair of spaced apart clamping ends. The ends are dimensioned to separate teeth and/or create adaptation pressure on an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer and/or a dental matrix. The ends are translucent. 
     In one exemplary form, the ends include a first tip and a spaced apart second tip wherein the first tip is dimensioned to create adaptation pressure on the dental matrix and the second tip is dimensioned to create adaptation pressure on the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer. In another exemplary form, the ends have a configuration selected from the group consisting of J-shaped, L-shaped and V-shaped. In still another exemplary form, the body includes a pair of spaced apart legs that extend away from the body, each end is attached to one of the legs, and the ends are removable from the elastic body. In yet another exemplary form, the body includes a pair of spaced apart legs that extend away from the body, each end is attached to one of the legs, each end includes a surface with a ridge, and the ridges are arranged in a facing relationship when the ends are attached to the legs. Preferably, the ridges are centrally located on the surface. Preferably, the ridges extend from one edge to an opposite edge of the surface. The ridges can be coplanar with the legs when the ends are attached to the legs. In another exemplary form, the body includes a pair of spaced apart legs that extend away from the body, each end is attached to one of the legs, and each end includes a concavity in a surface opposite the body. In still another exemplary form, the body includes a pair of spaced apart legs that extend away laterally from the body, each end is attached to one of the legs, and the body is circular. The body can include an arcuate cover. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides a separator ring for separating teeth and/or for creating adaptation pressure on an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer and/or a dental matrix. The separator ring includes an elastic metallic body that terminates in a first leg that extends away from the body and a second leg that extends away from the body wherein the first leg and the second leg are in spaced relationship. A first translucent clamping end is attached to the first leg; and a second translucent clamping end is attached to the second leg. The first end and the second end are dimensioned to separate teeth and/or create adaptation pressure on an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer and/or a dental matrix when the separator ring is installed between the teeth. 
     In one exemplary form, the first end is removable from the first leg, and the second end is removable from the second leg. In another exemplary form, the first leg extends away perpendicularly from the body, and the second leg extends away perpendicularly from the body. In still another exemplary form, the first end includes a first surface with a first ridge, the second end includes a second surface with a second ridge, and the first ridge and the second ridge are arranged in a facing relationship when the first end is attached to the first leg and the second end is attached to the second leg. The first ridge can be centrally located on the first surface, and the second ridge cam be centrally located on the second surface. Preferably, the first ridge extends from one edge to an opposite edge of the first surface, and the second ridge extends from one edge to an opposite edge of the second surface. The first ridge can be coplanar with the first leg when the first end is attached to the first leg, and the second ridge can be coplanar with the second leg when the second end is attached to the second leg. The first end can include a concavity in a surface opposite the body, and the second end can include a concavity in a surface opposite the body. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention provides a kit for preparing a form for filling a hollow cavity preparation in a tooth. The kit includes at least one sectional dental matrix comprising a curved strip of material. The strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of the cavity preparation and a surface of the tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the cavity preparation and the surface of the tooth to create the form for filling the cavity preparation. The strip has a horizontally concave side surface and a horizontally convex side surface. The kit also includes at least one separate dental matrix stabilizer including an elongated elastic body having a first end portion, a second opposite end portion, a middle portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion, and a first side surface. The first side surface of the body includes a first outwardly extending protrusion on the first end portion, and the first side surface of the body further includes a second outwardly extending protrusion on the second end portion. 
     In the kit, the dental matrix can have has a first thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at a first plane horizontal to the strip that is less than a second thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at a second plane horizontal to the strip wherein the second plane is below the first plane. The strip of the dental matrix can have a base portion and an upper portion integral with and extending upward from the base portion, wherein the horizontally concave side surface forming the base portion is not vertically concave, and the horizontally concave side surface forming the upper portion of the dental matrix is vertically concave. The strip of the dental matrix can have a base portion and an upper portion integral with and extending upward from the base portion, and strip thickness between the concave side surface and the convex side surface at planes horizontal to the strip can decrease from lower to upper sections of the upper portion of the strip. 
     In the kit, the first end portion of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer can include an area of material weakness extending toward the top surface and extending toward the bottom surface and extending toward a first end surface of the body whereby the first end portion can be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area of material weakness. 
     In one exemplary form, the kit includes a matrix removal tool selected from the group consisting of pliers, tweezers or forceps. In another exemplary form, the kit includes more than one of the dental matrix, and at least two of the matrix are anatomically shaped for different teeth. In still another exemplary form, the kit includes more than one of the dental matrix, and at least two of the matrix are tooth specific for different teeth. In yet another exemplary form, the kit includes more than one of the dental matrix, and at least two of the matrix are tooth type specific for different teeth. In still another exemplary form, the kit includes more than one of the dental matrix, and at least two of the matrix are tooth surface specific for different tooth surfaces. 
     The kit may further include a separator ring for separating teeth and/or for creating adaptation pressure on the dental matrix stabilizer and/or the dental matrix. The separator ring comprises an elastic metallic body that terminates in a pair of spaced apart clamping ends. The clamping ends are dimensioned to separate teeth and/or create adaptation pressure on the dental matrix stabilizer and/or the dental matrix. Preferably, the clamping ends are translucent. 
     The kit may further include a set of instructions for using the kit in filling the cavity preparation. The kit may further include a set of instructions for preparing the cavity preparation before using the kit. The set of instructions can be a disc (such as a DVD or CD) and/or printed materials (such as a book). The set of instructions can be a tooth preparation guide for preparing a cavity preparation according to the invention or a guide for restoring a tooth using the method of the invention. The kit can include more than one of the dental matrix stabilizer, and at least two of the dental matrix stabilizer are of different size. The kit can have a curing light. 
     In the kit, the first outwardly extending protrusion of the dental matrix stabilizer can be spaced inward from a first end surface of the body of the dental matrix stabilizer, and the second outwardly extending protrusion of the dental matrix stabilizer can be spaced inward from a second end surface of the body of the dental matrix stabilizer. Preferably, the body of the dental matrix stabilizer is translucent. Preferably, the material of the curved strip of the dental matrix is translucent. 
     In one form of the kit, the dental matrix comprises a second curved strip of translucent material. The second strip can have a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of a second cavity preparation in an adjacent tooth and a surface of the adjacent tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the second cavity preparation and the surface of the adjacent tooth to create the form for filling the second cavity preparation. The second strip can have a horizontally concave side surface and a horizontally convex side surface wherein the second curved strip is joined to the curved strip. 
     In another form of the kit, the dental matrix can have a second curved strip of translucent material wherein the second strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction of a second cavity preparation in an adjacent tooth and a surface of the adjacent tooth and to extend beyond a second vertical junction of the second cavity preparation and the surface of the adjacent tooth to create the form for filling the second cavity preparation. The second strip can have a horizontally concave side surface and a horizontally convex side surface wherein the second curved strip and/or the curved strip have at least one throughhole. 
     Therefore, it is one advantage of the invention to provide a single load, injection molded class II preparation, matrixing and composite filling technique and instruments. 
     It is another advantage of the invention to provide a unique translucent anatomic series of matrices and stabilizing instruments for class III, IV and VI composites. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a fully translucent matrix, separator and stabilizers (wedging action to replace wedge) that allows better vision (than metal matrices and separators) and full light curing access from occlusal and interproximal areas. This lateral and or simultaneous curing of a class II composite is an integral and unique feature of the invention. Heretofore the light curing has been based on curing from the occlusal (or chewing surface of the tooth) which requires several incremental layers. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a fully anatomic sectional matrix and stabilizers. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix which allows for the restoration of two approximating teeth simultaneously, including a back to back version. One of the two sectional matrices are designated as “back to back” and have a contact area specific cut out to allow a tighter contact. Non-limiting advantages are that there is only one thickness of material (e.g., Mylar™) between the approximating teeth which allows a tighter contact area; and also to avoid collapsing or buckling of one of the two rounded matrices where one of the two matrices will invert and create an undesirable concavity on the outer surface. This situation is uniquely critical to a Mylar™ type matrix but will also be beneficial to a metal version of the matrix. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a system to allow a completely convex surface to a filling in all axes. Previous systems create flat spots and a lack of bulbousness to the outer surface of the filling that encourage bacterial colonization and food impaction which is a pervasive problem in dentistry today. A completely convex filling surface that is naturally smooth from the resultant ideal anatomic shape of the matrix has inherent health benefits because of improved self cleansing and better action and access for a toothbrush and floss. Once the composite is trimmed back to fit the tooth, the surface loses its luster and smoothness and rarely is it polished back to the mirror like finish of composite that is injected against these matrix and then left untouched. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a restorative and matrix system to be tooth specific. Previous systems are classified simply as anterior or posterior tooth specific. The system of the invention, because it is truly anatomic, is specific to each tooth or tooth type. For example, in some instances it will be specific to the mesial or distal (right side or left side of front teeth, front or back for back teeth) of the tooth. This is important because teeth have unique shapes that are specific to each tooth and each “side” of the tooth. For example the mesial of an upper incisor is significantly flatter than the distal surface. Because of the specificity of the system this feature is required. Significant adaptation and forming of generically shaped, non anatomic matrices is currently the standard. Because these conventional matrices do not fit the tooth precisely, time and energy is spent to crimp and press the matrix to conform to the tooth. In addition to time and energy wasted, the crimping and wedging create flat spots, indentations and other filling surface flaws. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a system that has matrices that are self adapting. Because the fit is natural with advantages of saved time, energy for the clinician, and a filling with a better, smoother, healthier, and more comfortable surface. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a method and instruments for the restoration of a tooth where less finishing or removal of excess restorative material is a feature because of an intimate adaptation to a tooth being restored by a matrix that allows the injection molding of restorative material to occur without excess extruding in areas that are difficult to access. Better final result and times savings are some results. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a method, when there is deep decay or a previous filling that incorporates both the occlusal and interproximal surfaces, wherein the method is divided into the occlusal first and then the interproximal surfaces last. In other words, the occlusal and deep interproximal are prepared and then filled. Then the interproximal is prepared or re-prepared with the ideal saucer or slice shape so that the cavity configuration will allow for the ideal “C factor” (cavity configuration factor) and so that is never deeper than two millimeters in the axial dimension. Then the injection molding, single load technique can be utilized with the components of the system of the invention. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a method and instruments for the restoration of a tooth where feather and knife edge cavity margins are produced. Combined with the overall saucer shape of the cavity preparation, it creates a C Factor (cavity configuration factor) that can be as small as 1/1 or 1. Typical C factors for traditional class II cavity preparations are in the range of 2/1 or 3/1 or higher. The higher the C factor, the greater the risk that areas of composite will pull away from a tooth surface during polymerization leaving a resulting gap; or creating stress to the tooth causing enamel fractures and/or post-operative symptoms. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a method for the restoration of a posterior tooth having an original shape including a top surface and an interproximal surface. The unique preparation design, restorative protocol and kit for filling and finishing are interdependent on each aspect to create a significant advancement in this procedure. The final outcome is a tooth that will be less weakened and therefore more fracture resistant. The C factor is mitigated, and marginal integrity and filling strength are greatly improved with the method. 
     It is still another advantage of the invention to provide a method including simultaneously light curing of a bonding agent and a flowable composite and paste composite resin contained in the cavity preparation. Preferably, the curing light is simultaneously directed at the top surface of the tooth, at a buccal portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth, and a lingual portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth. Buccal-Lingual curing of a Class II restoration is unique to this advancement, heretofore has been from largely from the occlusal. 
     It is yet another advantage of the invention to provide a method for the restoration of a tooth wherein the filled cavity preparation of the interproximal area is injection molded rather than layered and therefore seamless. Injection of the second and third components, flowable composite and paste composite into an existing pool of uncured and therefore fluid environment allows consistent bubble and gap formation. 
     The combination of one or more features of the invention allows the radical departure from traditional class II composite preparations and fillings which have a significant failure rate, as high as 50% higher failure rate than Class II silver amalgam fillings. (See, for example, Van Nieuwenhuysen et al., “Long-term evaluation of extensive restorations in permanent teeth”,  J Dent.  2003, 31:395-405; and Sjogren et al., “Survival time of class II molar restorations in relation to patient and dental health insurance costs for treatment”,  Swed Dent J.  2002, 26:59-66; and Mjor et al., “Placement and replacement of restorations in primary teeth.  Acta Odontol Scand.  2002, 60:25-28.) 
     Although Class II composites have been performed for at least 25 years, the cavity form has maintained a “mechanical lock” created by undercuts that physically retain the filling. This was a necessary design for non-bonded silver amalgam. Unfortunately these “box” forms leave weakened, undermined, vulnerable tooth structure and the tooth often begins to fracture over time. Cracked and fractured teeth are now the third leading cause of tooth loss in industrialized nations. It is therefore another advantage of the invention to provide an excellent seal and high surface area for enamel rod engagement. This overall system (tooth preparation, matrix system, injection molded filling process) allows for a non mechanical undercut cavity and instead relies on adhesion to enamel rods (pores of the enamel opened up during conditioning/etching of enamel) and the filling is retained with the same robust and permanent adhesion enjoyed by cosmetic veneering of front teeth which have no mechanical retention, only enamel adhesion. 
     These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood upon consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a top view of the light curing step of a tooth restoration method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of the matrix insertion step of the method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer insertion step of the method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a top perspective view of the ring separator insertion step of the method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a top perspective view of the beginning of the light curing step of the method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a top perspective view of the light curing step of the method according to the invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a detailed view taken along line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 7  showing an alternative separator ring according to the invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of one embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a side cross-sectional view of a dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a side cross-sectional view of another dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a top view of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12A  is a top view of another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12AA  is a view of the light curing device of  FIG. 12A  taken along line  12 AA- 12 AA of  FIG. 12A . 
         FIG. 12B  is a top view of the light curing device of  FIG. 12A  showing the light guides in phantom in their flexed position. 
         FIG. 12C  is a top view of yet another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12D  is a top view of still another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12E  is a bottom view of yet another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12F  is a side view of the light curing device of  FIG. 12E . 
         FIG. 12G  is a top view of yet another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12H  is a side view of still another version of a light curing device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 12I  is a view of the light curing device of  FIG. 12H  taken along line  12 I- 12 I of  FIG. 12H . 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of the dental matrix of  FIG. 10  taken along line  14 - 14  of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 15  is a top view of yet another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15B  is a top view of still another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15C  is a front view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15B . 
         FIG. 15D  is a top view of yet another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15E  is a front view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15D . 
         FIG. 15F  is a side view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15D . 
         FIG. 15G  is a top view of still another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15H  is a front view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15G . 
         FIG. 15I  is a side view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15G . 
         FIG. 15J  is a top view of yet another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15K  is a front view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15J . 
         FIG. 15L  is a side view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15J . 
         FIG. 15M  is a top view of still another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15N  is a cross-sectional view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15M  taken along line  15 N- 15 N of  FIG. 15M . 
         FIG. 15O  is a bottom view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15M . 
         FIG. 15P  is a side view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15M . 
         FIG. 15Q  is a top view of yet another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer according to the invention. 
         FIG. 15R  is a cross-sectional view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15Q  taken along line  15 R- 15 R of  FIG. 15Q . 
         FIG. 15S  is a bottom view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15Q . 
         FIG. 15T  is a side view of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer of  FIG. 15Q . 
         FIG. 16  is a top perspective view of another dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the matrix of  FIG. 16  taken along line  17 - 17  of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of the matrix of  FIGS. 16 and 17  taken along line  18 - 18  of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  is a top perspective view of yet another dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view of the matrix of  FIG. 19  taken along line  20 - 20  of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the matrix of  FIGS. 19 and 20  taken along line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional view, similar to  FIG. 21 , of yet another dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 23  is a top perspective view of still another dental matrix according to the invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view of the matrix of  FIG. 23  taken along line  24 - 24  of  FIG. 23 . 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view showing the use of another alternative separator ring according to the invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a bottom view of the separator ring shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 27  is a front view of the separator ring shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 28  is a side view of the separator ring shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 29  is a top view of three adjacent teeth having three different cavity preparations. 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional view of a tooth of  FIG. 29  taken along line  30 - 30  of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional view of a tooth of  FIG. 29  taken along line  31 - 31  of  FIG. 29 . 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals will be used to refer to like parts from Figure to Figure in the following description of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Turning to  FIGS. 1-8 , there is shown various steps and devices in an example method according to the invention for the restoration of a tooth. In a first step, the dentist locates a tooth having a cavity. Referring to  FIG. 3 , there is shown a tooth  12  having a top occlusal surface  14  and an interproximal side surface  16 . A hollow cavity preparation  18  has been prepared in tooth  12 . The hollow cavity preparation  18  includes an inner surface  19 , a side surface  20 , an opposite side surface  21  and a bottom surface  22 . Using the well known classification system developed by Dr. G. V. Black in 1908, this would be a Class II cavity involving the interproximal side surface  16  and top occlusal surface  14  of tooth  12 , which may be a premolar or molar. 
     The tools and techniques for removing a portion of the top surface  14  of the tooth  12  and a portion of the interproximal surface  16  of the tooth  12  to form the hollow cavity preparation  18  are well known in the art and therefore will not be explained further. However, the Class II cavity preparation  18  of  FIG. 3  is saucer shaped when viewed from above and does not have the usual box-like shape of a conventional Class II cavity preparation. Specifically, the ends  17   a ,  17   b  of the cavity preparation  18  are not tangential to the tooth outside surface. Also, the cavity preparation  18  does not extend inward more than two millimeters inward from the interproximal side surface  16 . 
     After preparation of the saucer shaped Class II cavity preparation  18  in the tooth  12  of  FIG. 3 , a wedge (not shown) is inserted between the interproximal surface  16  of the tooth  12  and the interproximal surface  26  of adjacent tooth  24  to create a gap between the tooth  12  and the tooth  24 . Known wedges are suitable for this “pre-wedging” step. The wedge is removed, and a sectional anatomic translucent anatomic dental matrix  30  is inserted between the tooth  12  and the tooth  24  as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The dental matrix  30  will be described in further detail below. 
     Looking at  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the clear plastic anatomical sectional matrix  30  is placed around the tooth  12  maintaining anatomic root adaptation contact using an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  according to the invention. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  will be described in further detail below. A metallic elastic separator ring  78  is then placed in the interproximal embrasure to create slight tooth separation and additional adaptation pressure on the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  and/or the matrix  30 . 
     The cavity preparation  18  in tooth  12  is then etched with liquid and/or gel phosphoric acid, about 2 millimeters past the margins. The cavity preparation  18  in tooth  12  is then rinsed and dried. A lightly filled or unfilled light curable resin tooth bonding agent is then applied to tooth  12  covering the entire cavity preparation  18  and about 0.5-1.5 millimeters past the margins. The resin tooth bonding agent is then air thinned except on surface  22  where a small pool of resin tooth bonding agent is maintained. The resin tooth bonding agent is not light cured at this point. Resin tooth bonding agents improve composite to enamel and/or dentin bonding. One example resin tooth bonding agent is available under the tradename OptiBond Solo Plus®. 
     A light curable flowable composite resin is then injected directly into the pool of resin tooth bonding agent (under magnification if possible) without incorporating bubbles. A tiny amount of the light curable flowable composite resin is expressed before placement to ensure that there is no air in the cannula. The light curable flowable composite and resin tooth bonding agent are not light cured at this point. Generally, light curable flowable composite resins contain 20-25 percent less filler in the light curable polymeric material than nonflowable paste materials. Light curable flowable composite resins are available under tradenames such as Filtek™, Flow-It™, EsthetX®, Revolution®, AeliteFlo®, PermaFlo®, Dyract Flow®, Tetric®, and Heliomolar®. Light curable resins are preferred as light cured resins are more color stable than chemically cured resins. 
     A light curable paste composite resin is then extruded into the pool of flowable composite resin and resin tooth bonding agent without creating air bubbles, allowing the composite resin to displace most of the lesser filled flowable composite resin and resin tooth bonding agent (under magnification if possible). Composite resins are available under tradenames such as 3M Z100™, 3M Filtek Supreme™, and Prodigy®. The next steps are burnishing, carving the anatomy and carving excess composite. There is no need to use a condenser or plugger. 
     The top occlusal surface  14  of the filled cavity preparation is then cured using a curing light such as high intensity light emitting diode (LED) lights, plasma-arc curing lights, halogen lights, and laser lights. The interproximal region of the filled cavity preparation is cured using a dental curing light  80  with a light guide having two separate distal sections that allow for simultaneous curing of the buccal portion and the lingual portion of the filled cavity preparation while applying air cooling from an air syringe or one curing light according to the invention. Thus, lateral light curing is used. Alternatively, two individual curing lights can be used. The separator ring  78  and interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  are then removed and the simultaneous curing of the buccal portion and the lingual portion of the filled cavity preparation is then repeated using the dental curing light  80  that will be described in further detail below. The matrix  30  is then removed, and the restored tooth  12  is polished with discs, strips, and rubber tipped and carbide burs. 
     In cases where the cavity preparation  18  must extend inward more than about two millimeters from the interproximal side surface  16 , an alternative method may be used. In this alternative method, a base material, such as a flowable composite, a glass ionomer material or a paste composite resin, is first used to build up the restoration such that the cured base material is about two millimeters or less from the desired restored tooth interproximal outside surface. However, the cured base material does not extend to the edge of the cavity preparation  18  in the tooth. A lightly filled or unfilled light curable resin tooth bonding agent is then applied to the cured base material in the cavity preparation  18  and about 0.5-1.5 millimeters past the margins. The resin tooth bonding agent is then air thinned except on surface  22  where a small pool of resin tooth bonding agent is maintained. The resin tooth bonding agent is not light cured at this point. 
     A light curable flowable composite resin is then injected directly into the pool of resin tooth bonding agent (under magnification if possible) without incorporating bubbles. A tiny amount of the light curable flowable composite resin is expressed before placement to ensure that there is no air in the cannula. The light curable flowable composite and resin tooth bonding agent are not light cured at this point. A light curable paste composite resin is then extruded into the pool of flowable composite resin and resin tooth bonding agent without creating air bubbles, allowing the composite resin to displace most of the lesser filled flowable composite resin and resin tooth bonding agent (under magnification if possible). The next steps are burnishing, carving the anatomy and carving excess composite. The light curing process then proceeds as above. 
     An example embodiment of a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix  30  that can be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. While the matrix  30  has been illustrated and described herein in the context of a Class II restoration, the matrix  30  and all other matrices described herein are also suitable for Class III and Class IV restorations. Looking at  FIGS. 3 and 10 , the dental matrix  30  includes a curved strip  32  of translucent material. The dental matrix  30  can be formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. The strip  32  has a length running from a first end  34  to a second end  36  of the dental matrix  30 . The length of the dental matrix  30  is sufficient to extend beyond a first vertical junction  23 L of the interproximal cavity preparation  18  and an interproximal surface  16  of the tooth  12  and to extend beyond a second vertical junction  23 R of the interproximal cavity preparation  18  and the interproximal surface  16  of the tooth  12  to create the form for filling the interproximal cavity preparation  18 . 
     The strip  32  of the dental matrix  30  has a horizontally concave side surface  38  and a horizontally convex side surface  40  (see  FIG. 10 ). The concave side surface  38  and the convex side surface  40  extend from the first end  34  to the second end  36  of the dental matrix  30 . The strip  32  of the dental matrix  30  also has a base portion  42  and an upper portion  44  integral with and extending upward from the base portion  42  of the dental matrix  30 . The horizontally concave side surface  38  forming the base portion  42  is not vertically concave (that is, a cross-section of the base portion  42  has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface  46  of the dental matrix  30 . The horizontally concave side surface  38  forming the upper portion  44  of the dental matrix  30  is vertically concave. See  FIG. 10 . The horizontally concave side surface  38  is anatomic in that the horizontally concave side surface  38  has an inner surface that that conforms to the shape of the outer surface of the region of the natural tooth being restored. 
     Preferably, the matrix  30  is anatomically shaped. The matrix  30  can be tooth specific. By “tooth specific” it is meant that the matrix is configured to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the specific natural tooth being restored such as (without limitation) an upper right second molar. The matrix  30  can be tooth type specific. By “tooth type specific” it is meant that the matrix is configured to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the specific type of natural tooth being restored such as (without limitation) an upper molar. The matrix  30  can be tooth surface specific. By “tooth surface specific” it is meant that the matrix is configured to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the specific natural tooth surface being restored such as (without limitation) an upper right first molar mesial surface. 
     Turning to  FIG. 11 , there is shown another embodiment of a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix  30 A. In the dental matrix  30 A, the strip thickness between the concave side surface  38 A and the convex side surface  40 A at planes horizontal to the strip  32 A decreases from lower to upper sections of the strip  32 A. Thus, the clear plastic anatomical matrix  30 A has variable thickness to allow the thinner portion for the tooth contact area and the thicker portion at the gingival area. The tapering (decrease in thickness) of the strip  32 A can begin at any location above the bottom surface  46 A of the strip  32 A. However, in one version of the strip  32 A, the tapering of thickness begins in the upper portion  44 A. In other words, the base portion  42 A has uniform thickness. The dental matrix  30 A can be formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. 
     Turning to  FIG. 14 , there is shown yet another embodiment of a sectional translucent anatomic dental matrix  30 B. In the dental matrix  30 B, the strip  32 B has a first side surface  38 B and a second side surface  40 B. The first side surface  38 B has an intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B between a first horizontally concave section  49 A and a second horizontally concave section  49 B. The intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B provides contact with tooth surface that may have inward furcation and/or fluting from decay due to the age of the patient. The intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B can begin at any location above the bottom surface of the strip  32 B. The dental matrix  30 B can be formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. 
     An example embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  that can be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. Looking at  FIGS. 4 and 9 , the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50  having a first end portion  51 , a second opposite end portion  52 , a middle portion  53  connecting the first end portion  51  and the second end portion  52 , a first side surface  54 , a second side surface  55 , a top surface  56  and a bottom surface  57 . The first end portion  51  has a first throughhole  58  extending from the top surface  56  to the bottom surface  57  of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . The second end portion  52  has a second throughhole  59  extending from the top surface  56  to the bottom surface  57  of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . 
     The first end portion  51  includes an area  61  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56  and extends toward the bottom surface  57  and extends toward a first end surface  62  of the body  50 . The area  61  of material weakness extends from the first throughhole  58  to the first end surface  62  of the body  50 . This allows the first end portion  51  to be separated into separate end members  63 ,  64  by application of a separation force at the area  61  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . Preferably, end members  63 ,  64  have a rectangular vertical cross-section. The area  61  of material weakness can be formed with a material of lower shear strength than the other material of the dental matrix stabilizer  48 , or can be formed by including perforations or other like open areas in the area  61  of material weakness. 
     The second end portion  52  includes an area  65  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56  and extends toward the bottom surface  57  and extends toward a second end surface  66  of the body  50 . The area  65  of material weakness extends from the second throughhole  59  to the second end surface  66  of the body  50 . This allows the second end portion  52  to be separated into separate end members  67 , 68  by application of a separation force at the area  65  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . Preferably, end members  67 ,  68  have a rectangular vertical cross-section. The area  65  of material weakness can be formed with a material of lower shear strength than the other material of the dental matrix stabilizer  48 , or can be formed by including perforations or other like open areas in the area  65  of material weakness. 
     The top surface  56  of the body  50  of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  includes a first pair of upper side-by-side depressions  71   f ,  71   b  in the middle portion  53  of the body  50 , and the bottom surface  57  of the body  50  includes a second pair of analogous lower side-by-side depressions (not shown) in the middle portion of the body. The first pair of upper side-by-side depressions  71   f ,  71   b  include inwardly curved inner surfaces  73   f ,  73   b , and the second pair of lower side-by-side depressions (not shown) include analogous inwardly curved inner surfaces (not shown). 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 , the first side surface  54  of the body  50  includes a curved protrusion  75   f  located near the first throughhole  58  and a curved protrusion  76   f  located near the second throughhole  59 . Likewise, the second side surface  55  of the body  50  includes a curved protrusion  75   b  located near the first throughhole  58  and a curved protrusion  76   b  located near the second throughhole  59 . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone elastomer or a polyurethane elastomer. 
     Turning to  FIG. 13 , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50 A having a first end portion  51 A, a second opposite end portion  52 A, a middle portion  53 A connecting the first end portion  51 A and the second end portion  52 A, a first side surface  54 A, a second side surface  55 A, a top surface  56 A and a bottom surface (not shown). The first end portion  51 A has a first throughhole  58 A extending from the top surface  56 A to the bottom surface of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A. The second end portion  52 A has a second throughhole  59 A extending from the top surface  56 A to the bottom surface of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A. 
     The first end portion  51 A includes an area  61 A of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56 A and extends toward the bottom surface and extends toward a first end surface  62 A of the body  50 A. The area  61 A of material weakness extends from the first throughhole  58 A to the first end surface  62 A of the body  50 A. This allows the first end portion  51 A to be separated into separate end members  63 A,  64 A by application of a separation force at the area  61 A of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A. Preferably, end members  63 A,  64 A have a rectangular vertical cross-section. 
     The second end portion  52 A includes an area  65 A of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56 A and extends toward the bottom surface and extends toward a second end surface  66 A of the body  50 A. The area  65 A of material weakness extends from the second throughhole  59 A to the second end surface  66 A of the body  50 A. This allows the second end portion  52 A to be separated into separate end members  67 A,  68 A by application of a separation force at the area  65 A of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A. Preferably, end members  67 A,  68 A have a rectangular vertical cross-section. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A, the first side surface  54 A of the body  50 A includes a curved protrusion  75   f  located near the first throughhole  58 A and a curved protrusion  76   f  located near the second throughhole  59 A. Likewise, the second side surface  55 A of the body  50 A includes a curved protrusion  75   b  located near the first throughhole  58 A and a curved protrusion  76   b  located near the second throughhole  59 A. 
     In interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A, the first side surface  54 A of the body  50 A includes a first curved protrusion  77   f  located near an intermediate vertical plane of the body  50 A. Likewise, the second side surface  55 A of the body  50 A includes a second curved protrusion  77   b  located near the intermediate vertical plane of the body  50 A. The curved protrusions  77   f ,  77   b  are beneficial when used with dental matrix  30 B having the intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B that provides contact with tooth surface that may have inward decay due to the age of the patient. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 A can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     Turning to  FIG. 15 , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50 B having a first end portion  51 B, a second opposite end portion  52 B, a middle portion  53 B connecting the first end portion  51 B and the second end portion  52 B, a first side surface  54 B, a second side surface  55 B, a top surface  56 B and a bottom surface (not shown). 
     The first end portion  51 B includes an area  61 B of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56 B and extends toward the bottom surface and extends toward a first end surface  62 B of the body  50 B. The area  61 B of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the first end portion  51 B to the first end surface  62 B of the body  50 B. This allows the first end portion  51 B to be separated into separate end members  63 B,  64 B by application of a separation force at the area  61 B of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B. Preferably, end members  63 B,  64 B have a rectangular vertical cross-section. 
     The second end portion  52 B includes an area  65 B of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56 B and extends toward the bottom surface and extends toward a second end surface  66 B of the body  50 B. The area  65 B of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the second end portion  52 B to the second end surface  66 B of the body  50 B. This allows the second end portion  52 B to be separated into separate end members  67 B,  68 B by application of a separation force at the area  65 B of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B. Preferably, end members  67 B,  68 B have a rectangular vertical cross-section. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B, the first side surface  54 B of the body  50 B includes a curved protrusion  75   f  and a curved protrusion  76   f . Likewise, the second side surface  55 B of the body  50 B includes a curved protrusion  75   b  and a curved protrusion  76   b.    
     In interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B, the first side surface  54 B of the body  50 B includes a first curved protrusion  77   f  located near an intermediate vertical plane of the body  50 B. Likewise, the second side surface  55 B of the body  50 B includes a second curved protrusion  77   b  located near the intermediate vertical plane of the body  50 B. The curved protrusions  77   f ,  77   b  are beneficial when used with dental matrix  30 B having the intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B that provides contact with tooth surface that may have inward decay due to the age of the patient. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 B can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15B and 15C , there is shown yet another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   d  having a first end portion  51   d , a second opposite end portion  52   d , a middle portion  53   d  connecting the first end portion  51   d  and the second end portion  52   d , a first side surface  54   d , a second side surface  55   d , a top surface  56   d  and a bottom surface  57   d . The first end portion  51   d  extends to a first end surface  62   d  of the body  50   d . The second end portion  52   d  extends to a second end surface  66   d  of the body  50   d . The top surface  56   d  may include indicia  65   d  that indicate which side is placed upward away from the gingival during use. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d , the first side surface  54   d  of the body  50   d  includes a curved protrusion  75   f  and a curved protrusion  76   f . Likewise, the second side surface  55   d  of the body  50   d  includes a curved protrusion  75   b  and a curved protrusion  76   b.    
     In interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d , the first side surface  54   d  of the body  50   d  includes a first curved protrusion  77   f  located near an intermediate vertical plane of the body  50   d . Likewise, the second side surface  55   d  of the body  50   d  includes a second curved protrusion  77   b  located near the intermediate vertical plane of the body  50   d . The curved protrusions  77   f ,  77   b  are beneficial when used with dental matrix  30 B having the intermediate horizontally convex section  47 B that provides contact with tooth surface that may have inward decay due to the age of the patient. The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     The top surface  56   d  of the body  50   d  of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d  includes a first pair of upper side-by-side depressions  171   f ,  171   b  in the middle portion  53   d  of the body  50   d . The first pair of upper side-by-side depressions  171   f ,  171   b  include inwardly curved inner surfaces  173   f ,  173   b . The bottom surface  57   d  of the body  50   d  of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d  includes a lower concavity  171 L in the middle portion  53   d  of the body  50   d . The lower concavity  171 L limits the application of undesired pressure on the interdental gingival when the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   d  is positioned between a patient&#39;s teeth. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15D to 15F , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   e  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   e  having a disc shaped first end portion  51   e , a disc shaped second opposite end portion  52   e , a middle portion  53   e  connecting the first end portion  51   e  and the second end portion  52   e , a first side surface  54   e , a second side surface  55   e , a top surface  56   e  and a bottom surface  57   e . The first end portion  51   e  extends to a first end surface  58   e  of the body  50   e . The second end portion  52   e  extends to a second end surface  59   e  of the body  50   e . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   e  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   e , the middle portion  53   e  includes a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) first section  61   e , a first intermediate section  62   e , a central rod-like section  63   e , a second intermediate section  64   e , and a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) second section  65   e . As shown in the top view of  FIG. 15D , the section of the first side surface  54   e  that is part of the first section  61   e  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   e  to the first intermediate section  62   e . The section of the first side surface  54   e  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   e  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   e  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the first side surface  54   e  that is part of the second section  65   e  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   e  to the second intermediate section  64   e . The section of the first side surface  54   e  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   e  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   e  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e.    
     Likewise, the section of the second side surface  55   e  that is part of the first section  61   e  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   e  to the first intermediate section  62   e . The section of the second side surface  55   e  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   e  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   e  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the second side surface  55   e  that is part of the second section  65   e  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   e  to the second intermediate section  64   e . The section of the second side surface  55   e  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   e  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   e  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e.    
     As shown in the side view of  FIG. 15E , the section of the top surface  56   e  that is part of the first section  61   e  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   e  to the first intermediate section  62   e  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   e . The section of the top surface  56   e  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   e  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the top surface  56   e  that is part of the second section  65   e  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   e  to the second intermediate section  64   e  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   e . The section of the top surface  56   e  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   e  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e.    
     Likewise, the section of the bottom surface  57   e  that is part of the first section  61   e  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   e  to the first intermediate section  62   e  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   e . The section of the bottom surface  57   e  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   e  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the bottom surface  57   e  that is part of the second section  65   e  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   e  to the second intermediate section  64   e  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   e . The section of the bottom surface  57   e  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   e  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e.    
     The body  50   e  includes an area  66   e  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   e  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   e  and extends to the first end surface  58   e  of the body  50   e . The area  66   e  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the first intermediate section  62   e  to the first end surface  58   e  of the body  50   e . This allows the first end portion  51   e , the first section  61   e  and part of the first intermediate section  62   e  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  66   e  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   e . Likewise, the body  50   e  includes an area  67   e  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   e  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   e  and extends to the second end surface  59   e  of the body  50   e . The area  67   e  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the second intermediate section  64   e  to the second end surface  59   e  of the body  50   e . This allows the second end portion  52   e , the second section  65   e  and part of the second intermediate section  64   e  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  67   e  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   e.    
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15G to 15I , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   f  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   f  having a disc shaped first end portion  51   f , a disc shaped second opposite end portion  52   f , a middle portion  53   f  connecting the first end portion  51   f  and the second end portion  52   f , a first side surface  54   f , a second side surface  55   f , a top surface  56   f  and a bottom surface  57   f . The first end portion  51   f  extends to a first end surface  58   f  of the body  50   f . The second end portion  52   f  extends to a second end surface  59   f  of the body  50   f . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   f  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   f , the middle portion  53   f  includes a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) first section  61   f , a first intermediate section  62   f , a central section  63   f , a second intermediate section  64   f , and a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) second section  65   f . As shown in the top view of  FIG. 15G , the section of the first side surface  54   f  that is part of the first section  61   f  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   f  to the first intermediate section  62   f . The section of the first side surface  54   f  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   f  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   f  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   f  which has cylindrical end sections  163   f ,  363   f  on both sides of a generally spherical center section  263   f . The section of the first side surface  54   f  that is part of the second section  65   f  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   f  to the second intermediate section  64   f . The section of the first side surface  54   f  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   f  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   f  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f.    
     Likewise, the section of the second side surface  55   f  that is part of the first section  61   f  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   f  to the first intermediate section  62   f . The section of the second side surface  55   f  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   f  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   f  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   f  which has cylindrical end sections  163   f ,  363   f  on both sides of a generally spherical center section  263   f . The section of the second side surface  55   f  that is part of the second section  65   f  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   f  to the second intermediate section  64   f . The section of the second side surface  55   f  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   f  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   f  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f.    
     As shown in the side view of  FIG. 15H , the section of the top surface  56   f  that is part of the first section  61   f  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   f  to the first intermediate section  62   f  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   f . The section of the top surface  56   f  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   f  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f . The section of the top surface  56   f  that is part of the second section  65   f  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   f  to the second intermediate section  64   f  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   f . The section of the top surface  56   f  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   f  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f.    
     Likewise, the section of the bottom surface  57   f  that is part of the first section  61   f  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   f  to the first intermediate section  62   f  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   f . The section of the bottom surface  57   f  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   f  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f . The section of the bottom surface  57   f  that is part of the second section  65   f  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   f  to the second intermediate section  64   f  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   f . The section of the bottom surface  57   f  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   f  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   f.    
     The body  50   f  includes an area  66   f  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   f  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   f  and extends to the first end surface  58   f  of the body  50   f . The area  66   f  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the first intermediate section  62   f  to the first end surface  58   f  of the body  50   f . This allows the first end portion  51   f , the first section  61   e  and part of the first intermediate section  62   f  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  66   f  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   f . Likewise, the body  50   f  includes an area  67   f  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   f  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   f  and extends to the second end surface  59   f  of the body  50   f . The area  67   f  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the second intermediate section  64   f  to the second end surface  59   f  of the body  50   f . This allows the second end portion  52   f , the second section  65   f  and part of the second intermediate section  64   f  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  67   f  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   f.    
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15J to 15L , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   g  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   g  having a disc shaped first end portion  51   g , a disc shaped second opposite end portion  52   g , a middle portion  53   g  connecting the first end portion  51   g  and the second end portion  52   g , a first side surface  54   g , a second side surface  55   g , a top surface  56   g  and a bottom surface  57   g . The first end portion  51   g  extends to a first end surface  58   g  of the body  50   g . The second end portion  52   g  extends to a second end surface  59   g  of the body  50   g . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   g  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   g , the middle portion  53   g  includes a generally cylindrical first section  61   g , a first spherical intermediate section  62   g , a central cylindrical section  63   g , a second spherical intermediate section  64   g , and a generally cylindrical second section  65   g.    
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15M to 15P  there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   h  having a generally disc shaped first end portion  51   h , a generally disc shaped second opposite end portion  52   h , a middle portion  53   h  connecting the first end portion  51   h  and the second end portion  52   h , a first side surface  54   h , a second side surface  55   h , a top surface  56   h  and a bottom surface  57   h . The first end portion  51   h  extends to a first end surface  58   h  of the body  50   h . The second end portion  52   h  extends to a second end surface  59   h  of the body  50   h . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h , the middle portion  53   h  includes a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) first section  61   h , a first intermediate section  62   h , a central rod-like section  63   h , a second intermediate section  64   h , and a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) second section  65   h . As shown in the top view of  FIG. 15M , the section of the first side surface  54   h  that is part of the first section  61   h  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   h  to the first intermediate section  62   h . The section of the first side surface  54   h  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   h  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   h  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the first side surface  54   h  that is part of the second section  65   h  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   h  to the second intermediate section  64   h . The section of the first side surface  54   h  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   h  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   h  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h.    
     Likewise, the section of the second side surface  55   h  that is part of the first section  61   h  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   h  to the first intermediate section  62   h . The section of the second side surface  55   h  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   h  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   h  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the second side surface  55   h  that is part of the second section  65   h  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   h  to the second intermediate section  64   h . The section of the second side surface  55   h  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   h  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   h  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h.    
     As shown in the side view of  FIG. 15N , the section of the top surface  56   h  that is part of the first section  61   h  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   h  to the first intermediate section  62   h  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   h . The section of the top surface  56   h  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   h  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   e  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the top surface  56   h  that is part of the second section  65   h  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   h  to the second intermediate section  64   h  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   h . The section of the top surface  56   h  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   h  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h.    
     Likewise, the section of the bottom surface  57   h  that is part of the first section  61   h  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   h  to the first intermediate section  62   h  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   h . The section of the bottom surface  57   h  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   h  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h  which is tapered inward near its center. The section of the bottom surface  57   h  that is part of the second section  65   h  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   h  to the second intermediate section  64   h  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   h . The section of the bottom surface  57   h  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   e  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   h.    
     The body  50   h  includes an area  66   h  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   h  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   h  and extends to the first end surface  58   h  of the body  50   h . The area  66   h  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the first intermediate section  62   h  to the first end surface  58   h  of the body  50   h . This allows the first end portion  51   h , the first section  61   h  and part of the first intermediate section  62   h  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  66   h  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h . Likewise, the body  50   h  includes an area  67   h  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   h  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   h  and extends to the second end surface  59   h  of the body  50   h . The area  67   h  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the second intermediate section  64   h  to the second end surface  59   h  of the body  50   h . This allows the second end portion  52   h , the second section  65   h  and part of the second intermediate section  64   h  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  67   h  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h.    
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h , there is an inward concavity  71   h  in the bottom surface  57   h  in an inward section of the first intermediate section  62   h , the central section  63   h , and an inward section of the second intermediate section  64   h . The inward concavity  71   h  has a longitudinal axis X and a lateral axis Y transverse to the longitudinal axis X. The longitudinal axis X extend toward the first end portion  51   h  and the second end portion  52   h . The longitudinal axis X is longer than the lateral axis Y. The  71   h  limits the application of undesired pressure on the interdental gingival when the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h  is positioned between a patient&#39;s teeth. Also, the first end portion  51   h  has a flat bottom surface  76   h , and the second end portion  52   h  has a flat bottom surface  77   h.    
     Turning now to  FIGS. 15Q to 15T , there is shown another embodiment of an interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i  which includes an elongated translucent (preferably transparent) elastic body  50   i  having a generally disc shaped first end portion  51   i , a generally disc shaped second opposite end portion  52   i , a middle portion  53   i  connecting the first end portion  51   i  and the second end portion  52   i , a first side surface  54   i , a second side surface  55   i , a top surface  56   i  and a bottom surface  57   i . The first end portion  51   i  extends to a first end surface  58   i  of the body  50   i . The second end portion  52   i  extends to a second end surface  59   i  of the body  50   i . The interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i  can be formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i , the middle portion  53   i  includes a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) first section  61   i , a first intermediate section  62   i , a central section  63   i , a second intermediate section  64   i , and a generally rectangular (in vertical cross-section) second section  65   i . As shown in the top view of  FIG. 15Q , the section of the first side surface  54   i  that is part of the first section  61   i  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   i  to the first intermediate section  62   i . The section of the first side surface  54   i  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   i  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   i  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   i  which has cylindrical end sections  163   i ,  363   i  on both sides of a generally spherical center section  263   i . The section of the first side surface  54   i  that is part of the second section  65   i  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   i  to the second intermediate section  64   i . The section of the first side surface  54   i  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   i  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   i  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i.    
     Likewise, the section of the second side surface  55   i  that is part of the first section  61   i  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   i  to the first intermediate section  62   i . The section of the second side surface  55   i  that is part of the first intermediate section  62   i  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the first section  61   i  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central section  63   i  which has cylindrical end sections  163   i ,  363   i  on both sides of a generally spherical center section  263   i . The section of the second side surface  55   i  that is part of the second section  65   i  extends inward linearly from the second end portion  52   i  to the second intermediate section  64   i . The section of the second side surface  55   i  that is part of the second intermediate section  64   i  extends in an outward arcuate manner from the second section  65   i  and then back inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i.    
     As shown in the side view of  FIG. 15R , the section of the top surface  56   i  that is part of the first section  61   i  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   i  to the first intermediate section  62   i  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   i . The section of the top surface  56   i  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   i  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i . The section of the top surface  56   i  that is part of the second section  65   i  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   i  to the second intermediate section  64   i  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   i . The section of the top surface  56   i  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   i  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i.    
     Likewise, the section of the bottom surface  57   i  that is part of the first section  61   i  extends linearly inward from the first end portion  51   i  to the first intermediate section  62   i  and through part of the first intermediate section  62   i . The section of the bottom surface  57   i  that is part of the inward section of the first intermediate section  62   i  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i . The section of the bottom surface  57   i  that is part of the second section  65   i  extends linearly inward from the second end portion  52   i  to the second intermediate section  64   i  and through part of the second intermediate section  64   i . The section of the bottom surface  57   i  that is part of the inward section of the second intermediate section  64   i  extends inward in an arcuate manner to the central tubular section  63   i.    
     The body  50   i  includes an area  66   i  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   i  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   i  and extends to the first end surface  58   i  of the body  50   i . The area  66   i  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the first intermediate section  62   i  to the first end surface  58   i  of the body  50   i . This allows the first end portion  51   i , the first section  61   i  and part of the first intermediate section  62   i  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  66   i  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i . Likewise, the body  50   i  includes an area  67   i  of material weakness that extends toward the top surface  56   i  and extends toward the bottom surface  57   i  and extends to the second end surface  59   i  of the body  50   i . The area  67   i  of material weakness extends from an inner portion of the second intermediate section  64   i  to the second end surface  59   i  of the body  50   i . This allows the second end portion  52   i  the second section  65   i  and part of the second intermediate section  64   i  to be separated into separate end members by application of a separation force at the area  67   i  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i.    
     In the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   i , there is an inward concavity  71   i  in the bottom surface  57   i  in an inward section of the first intermediate section  62   i , the central section  63   i , and an inward section of the second intermediate section  64   i . The  71   i  limits the application of undesired pressure on the interdental gingival when the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48   h  is positioned between a patient&#39;s teeth. Also, the first end portion  51   i  has a flat bottom surface  76   i , and the second end portion  52   i  has a flat bottom surface  77   i.    
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4-8 , the placement of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  is shown during a method according to the invention for the restoration of a tooth. After the dental matrix  30  is positioned as shown in  FIG. 4 , the dentist stretches the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be stretched by inserting the ends of a pliers in the first throughhole  58  and the second throughhole  59  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  and opening the ends of the pliers. Alternatively, the dentist can grab and pull apart the end portions  51  and  52  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The stretching of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  leads to a thinning of the middle portion  53  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  such that the dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be inserted between teeth  12  and  24  by movement in direction C of  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix stabilizer  48  then biases the base portion  42  of the dental matrix  30  against the tooth  12  as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     After the dental matrix stabilizer  48  is placed against the base portion  42  of the dental matrix  30 , the dentist separates the first end portion  51  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  into separate end members  63 ,  64  by application of a separation force at the area  61  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . Likewise, the dentist separates the second end portion  52  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  into separate end members  67 , 68  by application of a separation force at the area  65  of material weakness of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48 . The dentist then flexes the separator ring  78  open and then places the ends  79  of the separator ring  78  between the separate end members  63 ,  64  and separate end members  67 , 68  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the end member  63  biases the base portion  42  of the dental matrix  30  against the tooth  12  and the end member  64  contacts the base of the tooth  24 . In a similar manner, the end member  67  biases the base portion  42  of the dental matrix  30  against the tooth  12  and the end member  68  contacts the base of the tooth  24 . Optionally, two separator rings can be used with one separator ring applying adaptation pressure on the dental matrix  30  and the other separator ring applying adaptation pressure on the dental matrix stabilizer. 
     The dental matrix stabilizers  48 A,  48 B,  48   d ,  48   e ,  48   f ,  48   g ,  48   h  can be placed in a similar manner. For example, no pliers is needed for placing dental matrix stabilizer  48 B of  FIG. 15  as the dentist can grab and pull apart the end portions  51 B and  52 B of the dental matrix stabilizer  48 B in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4  when placing dental matrix stabilizer  48 B. Also, the areas of material weakness  61 ,  61 A,  61 B,  65 ,  65 A,  65 B of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizers  48 ,  48 A and  48 B may not be present in the interproximal dental matrix stabilizers  48 ,  48 A and  48 B. In these embodiments, the dentist can separate the first end portion and the second end portion of the dental matrix stabilizers  48 ,  48 A,  48 B into separate end members (if desired) by cutting along a line marked at  61  and  65  in  FIG. 9 . 
     Looking at  FIG. 8 , alternative ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B, are shown on a separator ring  78 A having an elastic ring  79 C. The ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B, of separator ring  78 A are spaced apart such that end  79 B can be placed between the separate end members  63 ,  64  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  and the end  79 A can bias the upper portion  44  of the dental matrix  30  and the end  79 A 2  can bias the tooth  24  when the separator ring  78 A is placed on the dental matrix stabilizer  48 . Preferably, the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B of separator ring  78 A are formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) material to provide for passage of light from the dental curing light  80 . The elastic ring  79 C of the separator ring  78 A can be opaque or translucent. Suitable materials for the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B of the separator ring  78 A are elastic polymeric materials and suitable materials for the ring  79 C of the separator ring  78 A are polymeric, metallic or composite materials. In one embodiment, the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B of separator ring  78 A have a recess  79 D that accepts a protrusion  79 E of the elastic ring  79 C in an interference fit such that the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B of separator ring  78 A are removable from the elastic ring  79 C. While the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B of the separator ring  78 A are shown having a generally J-shaped or L-shaped configuration in  FIG. 8 , the ends  79 A,  79 A 2 ,  79 B can also have a V-shaped configuration, or any other spaced apart configuration that allows for the application of force to end members of the dental matrix stabilizers  48 ,  48 A,  48 B and to the upper portion  44  of the dental matrix  30  when the separator ring  78 A is placed on the dental matrix stabilizer. 
     An example dental curing light  80  used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. Looking at  FIG. 12 , there is shown a dental curing light  80  according to the invention. The dental curing light  80  includes an electrical power supply (not shown) and a light source (not shown) in electrical communication with the electrical power supply. The light source can be a high intensity light emitting diode as is known in the art. The dental curing light  80  uses the typical 400-500 nanometer wavelength that is used in curing light curable composite materials. Single wavelength devices are preferred. The dental curing light  80  includes a light guide including a proximal section  82 , a first distal section  84  extending from the proximal section  84 , and a second distal section  86  extending from the proximal section  82 . The proximal section  82  is in optical communication with the light source, the first distal section  84  and the second distal section  86 . The first distal section  84  has a first distal end  85 , and the second distal section  86  has a second distal end  87 . The first distal section  84  and the second distal section  86  are formed from a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the first distal section  84  and the second distal section  86  can be bent to emit light in a various selected directions. An example flexible material is one that includes deformable metal wires that retain their shape upon bending in a matrix of an elastomer such as silicone or polyurethane. 
     The dental curing light  80  further includes a first light tip  91  having a first base  92  removably connected to the first distal end  85  of the first distal section  84  of the light guide. The first light tip  91  includes a first hollow tubular opaque body  93  having a first aperture  94  for emitting light. The first body  93  is formed from a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the first hollow body  93  can be bent to emit light in a first selected direction from the first aperture  94 . An example flexible material is one that includes deformable metal wires that retain their shape upon bending in a matrix of an elastomer such as silicone or polyurethane. The outside diameter of the first light tip  91  tapers inward from the first base  92  toward the first aperture  94 . In one embodiment, the first light tip  91  has a recess  105  that accepts a protrusion  106  of the first distal end  85  of the first distal section  84  of the light guide in an interference fit such that the first light tip  91  is removable from the first distal end  85  of the first distal section  84  of the light guide. 
     The dental curing light  80  also includes a second light tip  96  having a second base  97  removably connected to the second distal end  87  of the second distal section  86  of the light guide. The second light tip  96  includes a second hollow tubular opaque body  98  having a second aperture  99  for emitting light. The second body  98  is formed from a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the second hollow body  98  can be bent to emit light in a second selected direction from the second aperture  99 . An example flexible material is one that includes deformable metal wires that retain their shape upon bending in a matrix of an elastomer such as silicone or polyurethane. The outside diameter of the second light tip  96  tapers inward from the second base  97  toward the second aperture  99 . In one embodiment, the second light tip  96  has a recess  115  that accepts a protrusion  116  of the second distal end  87  of the second distal section  86  of the light guide in an interference fit such that the second light tip  96  is removable from second distal end  87  of the second distal section  86  of the light guide. 
     In the dental curing light  80 , the electrical power supply, the light source and the proximal section  82  of the light guide can be encased in a housing  101 . Alternatively, the electrical power supply and the light source are encased in the housing  101  and the proximal section  82  of the light guide is at least partially outside the housing  101 . 
     The dental curing light  80  can be used in a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation, and light is directed from the first light tip  91  of the dental curing light  80  at a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. Simultaneously lights is directed from the second light tip  96  of the dental curing light  80  at a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. The first light tip  91  and the second light tip  96  can be bent such that light can be directed at the buccal portion and the lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. The use of light curing is generally preferred over chemical curing as the resulting cured material is color stable. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12A , another example dental curing light  380  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380  includes an electrical power supply  381  (such as an AC power supply or a rechargeable battery or a primary battery) and light sources  382   a ,  382   b  in electrical communication with the electrical power supply  381 . The electrical power supply  381  and the light sources  382   a ,  382   b  are contained in a housing  401 . The light sources  382   a ,  382   b  can be high intensity light emitting diodes as is known in the art. The dental curing light  380  can use the typical 400-500 nanometer wavelength that is used in curing light curable composite materials. Plasma arc, halogen, and laser light sources are also suitable. 
     The dental curing light  380  includes a first light guide  383   a  having a first distal section  384   a  and a first distal end  385   a . A first light conducting optical fiber bundle (not shown, similar to  386   b ) is contained within a first sleeve of the first light guide  383   a . The first light conducting optical fiber bundle conducts light from the light source  382   a  to a transparent or translucent first tip  388   a  of the first light guide  383   a . The first tip  388   a  of the first light guide  383   a  can have a 3 millimeter circle diameter and can extend axially about 3 millimeters beyond the sleeve  387   a  of the first light guide  383   a.    
     The dental curing light  380  also includes a second light guide  383   b  having a second distal section  384   b  and a second distal end  385   b . A second circular light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   b  (see  FIG. 12AA ) is contained within a second sleeve  387   b  of the second light guide  383   b . The second light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   b  conducts light from the light source  382   b  to a transparent or translucent second tip  388   b  of the second light guide  383   b . The second tip  388   b  of the second light guide  383   b  can have a 3 millimeter circle diameter and can extend about 3 millimeters beyond the sleeve  387   b  of the second light guide  383   b . The second tip  388   b  extends outward from an integral transparent or translucent disc-like flange  388   t . The second light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   b  also conducts light from the light source  382   b  to the disc-like flange  388   t.    
     In one version of the dental curing light  380 , the first sleeve  387   a  and the second sleeve  387   b  are formed from a flexible material which retains shape in a bent condition such that the first sleeve  387   a  and the second sleeve  387   b  can be bent to emit light in a various selected directions. An example flexible material is one that includes deformable metal wires that retain their shape upon bending in a matrix of an elastomer such as silicone or polyurethane. 
     In another version of the dental curing light  380 , the first sleeve  387   a  and the second sleeve  387   b  are formed from a rigid material. Looking at  FIG. 12B , the operation of such a dental curing light  380  is shown. The light source  382   a  and first light guide  383   a  are mounted on a hinge assembly such that the light source  382   a  and first light guide  383   a  may pivot in direction O 1  shown in  FIG. 12B . Likewise, the light source  382   b  and second light guide  383   b  are mounted on a hinge assembly such that the light source  382   b  and second light guide  383   b  may pivot in direction O 2  shown in  FIG. 12B . The hinge assemblies are spring-biased inward such that the rest position for the first light guide  383   a  and the second light guide  383   b  are depicted in full lines in  FIG. 12B . When the first light guide  383   a  and the second light guide  383   b  are flexed outward against the bias of the hinge assemblies, the first light guide  383   a  and the second light guide  383  are in the flexed positions depicted in dashed lines in  FIG. 12B . 
     The dental curing light  380  can be used in a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation. The first light guide  383   a  and the second light guide  383   b  can be flexed outward as described with reference to  FIG. 12B , and thereafter the first light guide  383   a  and the second light guide  383   b  are released such that the first tip  388   a  of the dental curing light  380  assumes a position near a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation and the second tip  388   b  of the dental curing light  380  assumes a position near a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation. Alternatively, when the first sleeve  387   a  and the second sleeve  387   b  comprise flexible materials, the first sleeve  387   a  and the second sleeve  387   b  can be bent such that light can be directed at the buccal portion and the lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation by the first tip  388   a  and the second tip  388   b , preferably at a distance of less than 6 millimeters, most preferably at 3-4 millimeters. The proximity of the light guides or LEDs can be important as moving as little as 3 millimeters away from the surface affects photon transfer. The hinging of the light guides along with the dual surface profiles of the tips allows more intimate positioning than with previous lights. Preferably, in the relaxed position, the first tip  388   a  and the second tip  388   b  are about 4 to about 15 millimeters apart. In the case of incisor restoration, the first tip  388   a  and the second tip  388   b  are most preferably about 4 to about 15 millimeters apart. In the case of molar restoration, the first tip  388   a  and the second tip  388   b  are most preferably about 4 to about 15 millimeters apart. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12C , another example dental curing light  380   c  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380   c  includes an electrical power supply  381   c  (such as batteries) and light sources  382   c ,  382   d  in electrical communication by way of lines  381   l ,  381   m  with the electrical power supply  381   c . The light sources  382   c ,  382   d  can be high intensity light emitting diodes as is known in the art. The dental curing light  380   c  can use the typical 400-500 nanometer wavelength that is used in curing light curable composite materials. The electrical power supply  381   c  is contained in a housing  401   c . The dental curing light  380   c  includes a first light guide  383   c  having a first distal section  384   c  and a first distal end  385   c . The dental curing light  380   c  also includes a second light guide  383   d  having a second distal section  384   d  and a second distal end  385   d . The light source  382   c  is contained in the first distal end  385   c  of the first light guide  383   c . Likewise, the light source  382   d  is contained in the second distal end  385   d  of the second light guide  383   d.    
     A first light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   c  conducts light from the light source  382   c  to a first tip  388   c  which can extend about 3 millimeters beyond the sleeve  387   c  of the first light guide  383   c . Likewise, a second light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   d  conducts light from the light source  382   d  to a second tip  388   d  which can extend about 3 millimeters beyond the second sleeve  387   d  of the second light guide  383   d . Alternatively, the first light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   c  and the second light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   d  may be omitted from the dental curing light  380   c  and light may be emitted from the light sources  382   c ,  382   d  to the tips  388   c ,  388   d  and directly onto the tooth. By locating the light sources  382   c ,  382   d  near the end of the light guides  383   c ,  383   d  loss of light intensity and light scattering are minimized. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12D , another example dental curing light  380   d  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380   d  includes an electrical power supply (not shown) and light sources (not shown) in electrical communication with the electrical power supply as in the dental curing light  380  of  FIG. 12A . The dental curing light  380   d  includes a first light guide  383   e  having a first distal section  384   e  and a first distal end  385   e . The dental curing light  380   d  also includes a second light guide  383   f  having a second distal section  384   f  and a second distal end  385   f . A first light conducting optical fiber bundle conducts light from the light source to a first tip  388   e  of the first light conducting optical fiber. Likewise, a second light conducting optical fiber conducts light from the light source to a second tip  388   f  of the second light conducting optical fiber. In the dental curing light  380   d , there is a fan  391   d  that is in fluid communication with a first fluid conduit  392   e  and a second fluid conduit  392   f . The fan is powered by the electrical power supply. Flowing air from the fan  391   d  passes through the first fluid conduit  392   e  and exits the first distal end  385   e  of the first light guide  383   e . Flowing air from the fan  391   d  also passes through the second fluid conduit  392   f  and exits the second distal end  385   f  of the second light guide  383   f . When using the dental curing light  380   d  to cure restorative material in a cavity preparation, the flowing air contacts the tooth to provide a cooling effect. This eliminates heating of the tooth that results from photon collisions with the tooth. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 12E and 12F , another example dental curing light  380   e  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380   e  includes an electrical power supply (not shown) and light sources (not shown) in electrical communication with the electrical power supply as in the dental curing light  380  of  FIG. 12A . The dental curing light  380   e  includes a first light guide  383   g  having a first distal section  384   g  and a first distal end  385   g . The dental curing light  380   e  also includes a second light guide  383   h  having a second distal section  384   h  and a second distal end  385   h . In the dental curing light  380   e , there is also a third light guide  383   j  having a third distal section  384   j  and a third distal end  385   j . A first light conducting optical fiber bundle conducts light from the light source to a first tip  388   g  of the first light conducting optical fiber. Likewise, a second light conducting optical fiber bundle conducts light from the light source to a second tip  388   h  of the second light conducting optical fiber. Likewise, a third light conducting optical fiber conducts light from the light source to an end  388   j  of the third light conducting optical fiber. The first light guide  383   g  and the second light guide  383   h  are used to cure buccal and lingual portions of the restorative material as described above with reference to  FIG. 12A . The third light guide  383   j  is used to cure occlusal portions of the restorative material. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12G , yet another example dental curing light  380   g  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380   g  includes an electrical power supply  381   g  (such as batteries) and light sources  382   g ,  382   h  in electrical communication by way of lines  381   q .  381   r  with the electrical power supply  381   g . The light sources  382   g ,  382   h  can be high intensity light emitting diodes as is known in the art. The dental curing light  380   g  can use the typical 400-500 nanometer wavelength that is used in curing light curable composite materials. The electrical power supply  381   g  is contained in a housing  401   g . The dental curing light  380   c  includes a first generally L-shaped light guide  383   q  having a first distal section  384   q  and a first distal end  385   q . The dental curing light  380   c  also includes a second generally L-shaped light guide  383   r  having a second distal section  384   r  and a second distal end  385   r . The light source  382   g  is contained in the first distal end  385   q  of the first light guide  383   q . Likewise, the light source  382   h  is contained in the second distal end  385   r  of the second light guide  383   r.    
     A first light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   q  conducts light from the light source  382   g  to a first tip  388   q . The first tip  388   q  extends about 3 millimeters beyond the sleeve  387   q  of the first light guide  383   q . Likewise, a second light conducting optical fiber  386   r  conducts light from the light source  382   h  to a second tip  388   r . The second tip  388   r  of extends about 3 millimeters beyond the second sleeve  387   r  of the second light guide  383   r . Alternatively, the first light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   q  and the second light conducting optical fiber bundle  386   r  may be omitted from the dental curing light  380   g  and light may be emitted from the light sources  382   q ,  382   r  to the tips  388   q ,  388   r  and directly onto the tooth. By locating the light sources  382   q ,  382   r  near the end of the light guides  383   q ,  383   r  loss of light intensity and light scattering are minimized. 
     In the dental curing light  380   g , the first light guide  383   q  and the second light guide  383   r  are mounted on a hinge assembly  395   g  such that the first light guide  383   q  may pivot in direction O 3  shown in  FIG. 12G  and the second light guide  383   r  may pivot in direction O 4  shown in  FIG. 12G . The hinge assembly  395   g  includes a central pivot pin  397   g  in the middle of a helical torsion spring that has a first leg  398   g  that biases the first light guide  383   g  in direction O 5  and a second leg  399   g  that biases the second light guide  383   r  in direction O 6  as shown in  FIG. 12G . 
     The dental curing light  380   g  can be used in a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation. The first light guide  383   q  and the second light guide  383   r  can be flexed outward in directions O 3  and O 4  respectively as described with reference to  FIG. 12G  and thereafter the first light guide  383   q  and the second light guide  383   g  are released such that the first tip  388   q  of the dental curing light  380   g  assumes a position near a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation (preferably at a distance of less than 6 millimeters, most preferably at 3-4 millimeters) and the second tip  388   r  of the dental curing light  380   g  assumes a position near a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation (preferably at a distance of less than 6 millimeters, most preferably at 3-4 millimeters). 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12H , another example dental curing light  380   h  that may be used in the method of the invention will be now be described in further detail. The dental curing light  380   h  includes an electrical power supply  381   h  (such as batteries) and light sources  382   s ,  382   t ,  382   u  in electrical communication by way of line  381   x  with the electrical power supply  381   h . The light sources  382   s ,  382   t ,  382   u  can be high intensity light emitting diodes as is known in the art. The dental curing light  380   h  can use the typical 400-500 nanometer wavelength that is used in curing light curable composite materials. The electrical power supply  381   h  is contained in a housing  401   h . The dental curing light  380   h  includes an tubular extension arm  383   h  having a distal section  384   h  and a distal end  385   h . At the distal end  385   h  of the extension arm  383   h , there is located an arch-shaped support  387   h  on which light sources  382   s ,  382   t ,  382   u  are mounted. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 12H and 12I , the included angle A between the distal section  384   h  and the distal end  385   h  is about 90 degrees; however, the included angle between the distal section  384   h  and the distal end  385   h  can be about 30 degrees to about 150 degrees, preferably about 60 degrees to about 120 degrees. In the side view of  FIG. 12H , the arch-shaped support  387   h  has a generally U-shaped perimeter; however, other perimeter shapes, such as square, rectangular, V-shaped, oval, or circular, can be used. The support  387   h  has a base wall  388   x , a first wall  389   x  extending from the base wall  388   x , and a spaced second wall  390   x  extending from the base wall  388   x . The base wall  388   x  is connected to the arm  383   h . The arch-shaped support  387   h  can be rigid, or can be formed from a flexible material that retains its shape upon deforming. An example flexible material is one that includes deformable metal wires that retain their shape upon bending in a matrix of an elastomer such as silicone or polyurethane. 
     The dental curing light  380   h  can be used in a method for the restoration of a tooth having a hollow cavity preparation in an interproximal surface of the tooth. In the method, a light-curable restorative material is placed in the cavity preparation. The dental curing light  380   h  is positioned such that the light source  382   s  assumes a position near a buccal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation (preferably at a distance of less than 9 millimeters), the light source  382   t  assumes a position near an occlusal portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation (preferably at a distance of less than 9 millimeters), and the light source  382   u  assumes a position near a lingual portion of the restorative material in the cavity preparation (preferably at a distance of less than 9 millimeters). 
     Turning to  FIGS. 16-18 , there is shown yet another embodiment of a sectional translucent (preferably transparent) anatomic dental matrix  130  which allows for the restoration of two approximating teeth simultaneously. In the dental matrix  130 , there is a first strip  132  having a concave side surface  140  and a convex side surface  138  at planes horizontal to the first strip  132 . The first strip  132  of the dental matrix  130  also has a base portion  142  and an upper portion  144  integral with and extending upward from the base portion  142  of the first strip  132 . The horizontally concave side surface  140  forming the base portion  142  is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion  142  has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface  146  of the first strip  132  (see  FIG. 17 ). The horizontally concave side surface  140  forming the upper portion  144  of the first strip  132  is vertically concave (see  FIG. 17 ). 
     In the dental matrix  130 , there is also a second strip  152  having a concave side surface  158  and a convex side surface  160  at planes horizontal to the second strip  152 . The second strip  152  of the dental matrix  130  also has a base portion  162  and an upper portion  164  integral with and extending upward from the base portion  162  of the second strip  152 . The horizontally concave side surface  158  forming the base portion  162  is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion  162  has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface  166  of the second strip  152  (see  FIG. 17 ). The horizontally concave side surface  158  forming the upper portion  164  of the second strip  152  is vertically concave (see  FIG. 17 ). 
     The first strip  132  and the second strip  152  are joined by fusing at a middle portion  172  of the dental matrix  130  at the upper portion  144  of the first strip  132  and the upper portion  164  of the second strip  152 . The dashed oval in  FIG. 16  shows an example area of fusion. The first strip  132  and the second strip  152  can be formed as separate pieces and fused together or molded as a single piece. Preferably, the dental matrix  130  is formed from a translucent (preferably transparent) material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example translucent material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. Alternatively, the dental matrix  130  can be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. The first strip  132  and the second strip  152  can be formed using the same or different materials. 
     Looking at  FIG. 18 , the ends of the first strip  132  and the second strip  152  have a material thickness Ta (which may be about 0.002-0.003 inches in an example embodiment). Moving toward the middle portion  172  of the dental matrix  130 , the thickness of the first strip  132  and the second strip  152  tapers to a thickness Tb measured from the concave side surface  140  of the first strip  132  to the concave side surface  158  of the second strip  152 . Preferably, the thickness Tb is less than two times the thickness Ta such that the dental matrix  130  can be more easily positioned between restoration of two approximating teeth. Most preferably, the thickness Tb equals the thickness Ta. 
     For example, in one form of the dental matrix  130 , Ta can be about 0.002 inches and Tb can be about 0.002 inches. In other words, the contact area of the first strip  132  and the second strip  152  that is common to the first strip  132  and the second strip  152  will be the thickness of one sheet of strip (about 0.002 inches). This will mitigate the serious problem of back to back matrices that, when the matrices are removed, an open contact is created of 0.004 inches or more. In another form of the dental matrix  130 , Ta can be about 0.002 inches and Tb can be about 0.001 inches. In other words, the contact area that is common to the first strip  132  and the second strip  152  will be less than the thickness of one strip, or less than 0.002 inches. In this case, only a minimal separation pressure will be needed. One non-limiting advantage of the thinner section where the two wings of the matrix join (or are shared) is to avoid the gapping that occurs when two matrix bands are placed back to back when restoring two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously. The space taken by two thicknesses of a matrix dramatically increases the likelihood of an “open contact” where food becomes impacted and periodontal inflammation occurs. 
     When using the dental matrix  130  to restore two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously, the placement of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  between approximating teeth occurs before the dental matrix  130  is inserted between the approximating teeth. The dentist stretches the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be stretched by inserting the ends of a pliers in the first throughhole  58  and the second throughhole  59  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  and opening the ends of the pliers. Alternatively, the dentist can grab and pull apart the end portions  51  and  52  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The stretching of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  leads to a decrease in vertical cross-section of the middle portion  53  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  such that the dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be inserted between approximating teeth  12  and  24  by movement in direction C of  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix  130  can then be placed between approximating teeth  12  and  24  and the stretching tensile force on the dental matrix stabilizer  48  is released. As a result, the dental matrix stabilizer  48  biases the base portion  142  of the dental matrix  130  against the tooth  12  and the dental matrix stabilizer  48  biases the base portion  162  of the dental matrix  130  against the tooth  24 . In one example, the matrix  130  is positioned in a four handed operation in which the double sided matrix  130  is inserted by one person as the other clinical person stretches the stabilizer  48  to allow the double sided matrix  130  to seat, then the stabilizer  48  is released and relaxes into proper position. Alternatively, one or two clear stabilizing wedges can be inserted after the matrix  130  is placed. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 19-21 , there is shown yet another embodiment of a sectional translucent (preferably transparent) anatomic dental matrix  230  which allows for the restoration of two approximating teeth simultaneously. In the dental matrix  230 , there is a first strip  232  having a concave side surface  240  and a convex side surface  238  at planes horizontal to the first strip  232 . The first strip  232  of the dental matrix  230  also has a base portion  242  and an upper portion  244  integral with and extending upward from the base portion  242  of the first strip  232 . The horizontally concave side surface  240  forming the base portion  242  is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion  242  has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface  246  of the first strip  232  (see  FIG. 20 ). The horizontally concave side surface  240  forming the upper portion  244  of the first strip  232  is vertically concave (see  FIG. 20 ). 
     In the dental matrix  230 , there is also a second strip  252  having a concave side surface  258  and a convex side surface  260  at planes horizontal to the second strip  252 . The second strip  252  of the dental matrix  230  also has a base portion  262  and an upper portion  264  integral with and extending upward from the base portion  262  of the second strip  252 . The horizontally concave side surface  258  forming the base portion  262  is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion  262  has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface  266  of the second strip  252  (see  FIG. 20 ). The horizontally concave side surface  258  forming the upper portion  264  of the second strip  252  is vertically concave (see  FIG. 20 ). 
     The first strip  232  and the second strip  252  are joined by fusing at a middle portion  272  of the dental matrix  230  at the upper portion  244  of the first strip  232  and the upper portion  264  of the second strip  252 . The first strip  232  and the second strip  252  can be formed as separate pieces and fused together or molded as a single piece. The dental matrix  230  also includes an oval throughhole  290  that in one example can be a 2×3 millimeter oval. Other shapes are also possible for the throughhole  290 . Preferably, the dental matrix  230  is formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example translucent material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. Alternatively, the dental matrix  230  can be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. 
     Looking at  FIG. 21 , the ends of the first strip  232  and the second strip  252  have a material thickness Ta (which can be about 0.002-0.003 inches in an example embodiment). Moving toward the middle portion  272  of the dental matrix  230 , the thickness of the first strip  232  and the second strip  252  tapers to a thickness Tb measured from the concave side surface  240  of the first strip  232  to the concave side surface  258  of the second strip  252 . Preferably, the thickness Tb is less than two times the thickness Ta such that the dental matrix  230  can be more easily positioned between restoration of two approximating teeth. Most preferably, the thickness Tb equals the thickness Ta. One non-limiting advantage of the thinner section where the two wings of the matrix join is to avoid the gapping that occurs when two matrix bands are placed back to back when restoring two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously. The space taken by two thicknesses of a matrix dramatically increases the likelihood of an “open contact” where food becomes impacted and periodontal inflammation occurs. 
     When using the dental matrix  230  to restore two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously, the placement of the interproximal dental matrix stabilizer  48  between approximating teeth occurs before the dental matrix  230  is inserted between the approximating teeth. The dentist stretches the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be stretched by inserting the ends of a pliers in the first throughhole  58  and the second throughhole  59  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  and opening the ends of the pliers. Alternatively, the dentist can grab and pull apart the end portions  51  and  52  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in directions A and B shown in  FIG. 4 . The stretching of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  leads to a thinning of the middle portion  53  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  such that the dental matrix stabilizer  48  can be inserted between approximating teeth  12  and  24  by movement in direction C of  FIG. 4 . The dental matrix  230  can then be placed between approximating teeth  12  and  24  and the stretching force on the dental matrix stabilizer  48  is released. As a result, the dental matrix stabilizer  48  biases the base portion  242  of the dental matrix  230  against the tooth  12  and the dental matrix stabilizer  48  biases the base portion  262  of the dental matrix  230  against the tooth  24 . 
     When using the dental matrix  230  to restore two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously, the throughhole  290  will allow restorative material from both cavity preparations to unite. By applying a gentle force at the end of the procedure, the approximating teeth will separate along the cleavage plane. Alternatively, the dental matrix  230  can be cutaway, and the patient can be dismissed and the teeth will thereafter cleave (snap apart) with normal mastication to form a tight contact. This will assure that a strong tight tooth to tooth contact is created. Special offset shears can be used to cutaway the matrix  230  that would otherwise be locked onto teeth. Alternatively, a perforation can be created on the lingual side that will allow for easy removal of the dental matrix  230 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 22 , there is shown still another embodiment of a sectional translucent (preferably transparent) anatomic dental matrix  230 A which allows for the restoration of two approximating teeth simultaneously. In the dental matrix  230 A, there is a first strip  232 A having a concave side surface  240 A and a convex side surface  238 A at planes horizontal to the first strip  232 A. The first strip  232 A of the dental matrix  230 A also has a base portion (not shown, similar to  242  in  FIG. 20 ) and an upper portion  244 A integral with and extending upward from the base portion of the first strip  232 A. The horizontally concave side surface  240 A forming the base portion is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface of the first strip  232 A. The horizontally concave side surface  240 A forming the upper portion  244 A of the first strip  232 A is vertically concave. 
     In the dental matrix  230 A, there is also a second strip  252 A having a concave side surface  258 A and a convex side surface  260 A at planes horizontal to the second strip  252 A. The second strip  252 A of the dental matrix  230 A also has a base portion (not shown, similar to  262  in  FIG. 20 ) and an upper portion  264 A integral with and extending upward from the base portion of the second strip  252 A. The horizontally concave side surface  258 A forming the base portion is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface of the second strip  252 A. The horizontally concave side surface  258 A forming the upper portion  264 A of the second strip  252 A is vertically concave. 
     The first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A are joined by fusing at a middle portion  272 A of the dental matrix  230 A at the upper portion  244 A of the first strip  232 A and the upper portion  264 A of the second strip  252 A. The first strip  232 A includes an oval throughhole  289 A that in one example can be a 2×3 millimeter oval. The second strip  252 A includes an oval throughhole  290 A that in one example can be a 2×3 millimeter oval. The oval throughhole  289 A and the oval throughhole  290 A are aligned when the first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A are joined by fusing. Other shapes are also possible for the throughholes  289 A and  290 A. When the first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A are joined by fusing, a thin membrane  288 A is positioned between the throughholes  289 A and  290 A and a portion of the first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A. Preferably, the first strip  232 A, the second strip  252 A, and the membrane  288 A are formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example translucent material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. Alternatively, the dental matrix  230 A can be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. 
     Looking at  FIG. 22 , the ends of the first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A have a material thickness Ta (which can be about 0.002-0.003 inches in an example embodiment). Moving toward the middle portion  272 A of the dental matrix  230 A, the thickness of the first strip  232 A and the second strip  252 A tapers to a thickness Tb measured from the concave side surface  240 A of the first strip  232 A to the concave side surface  258 A of the second strip  252 A. Preferably, the thickness Tb is less than two times the thickness Ta such that the dental matrix  230 A can be more easily positioned between restoration of two approximating teeth. Most preferably, the thickness Tb equals the thickness Ta. One non-limiting advantage of the thinner section where the two wings of the matrix join is to avoid the gapping that occurs when two matrix bands are placed back to back when restoring two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously. The space taken by two thicknesses of a matrix dramatically increases the likelihood of an “open contact” where food becomes impacted and periodontal inflammation occurs. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 23-24 , there is shown yet another embodiment of a sectional translucent (preferably transparent) anatomic dental matrix  230 B which allows for the restoration of two approximating teeth simultaneously. In the dental matrix  230 B, there is a first strip  232 B having a concave side surface  240 B and a convex side surface  238 B at planes horizontal to the first strip  232 B. The first strip  232 B of the dental matrix  230 B also has a base portion (not shown, similar to  262 B) and an upper portion  244 B integral with and extending upward from the base portion of the first strip  2326 . The horizontally concave side surface  240 B forming the base portion is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface of the first strip  232 B. The horizontally concave side surface  240 B forming the upper portion  244 B of the first strip  232 B is vertically concave. 
     In the dental matrix  230 B, there is also a second strip  252 B having a concave side surface  258 B and a convex side surface  260 B at planes horizontal to the second strip  2526 . The second strip  252 B of the dental matrix  230 B also has a base portion  262 B and an upper portion  264 B integral with and extending upward from the base portion of the second strip  252 B. The horizontally concave side surface  258 B forming the base portion is not vertically concave, that is, a cross-section of the base portion has parallel straight vertical walls that are normal to a bottom surface of the second strip  252 B. The horizontally concave side surface  258 B forming the upper portion  264 B of the second strip  252 B is vertically concave. Preferably, the first strip  232 B and the second strip  252 B are formed from a translucent material such as a polymeric film. One non-limiting example translucent material is the polyester film commercially available as Mylar™. Alternatively, the dental matrix  230 B can be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. 
     The second strip  252 B includes an oval throughhole  290 B that in one example can be about 2×3 millimeter oval. Other shapes are also possible for the throughhole  290 B. When the first strip  232 B and the second strip  252 B are placed back to back, a section of the first strip  232 B is positioned in the throughhole  290 B of the second strip  252 B. Looking at  FIG. 24 , the ends of the first strip  232 B and the second strip  252 B have a material thickness Ta (which can be about 0.002-0.003 inches in an example embodiment). When the first strip  232 B and the second strip  252 B are placed back to back, the thickness of the dental matrix  230 B within the perimeter of the throughhole  290 B will be the thickness of the first strip  232 B, i.e., a single material thickness. One non-limiting advantage of the single material thickness within the perimeter of the throughhole  290 B is to avoid the gapping that occurs when two matrix bands are placed back to back when restoring two decayed, approximating teeth simultaneously. The space taken by two thicknesses of a matrix dramatically increases the likelihood of an “open contact” where food becomes impacted and periodontal inflammation occurs. However, in the dental matrix  230 B only a single material thickness within the perimeter of the throughhole  290 B is present. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 25 to 28 , there is shown the use of another alternative separator ring  410  according to the invention. The separator ring  410  has an arcuate body  412  having legs  414  and  416  that extend at a generally right angle from the body  412 . Leg  414  has a disc-shaped end  415 , and leg  416  has a disc-shaped end  417 . In the relaxed position shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 , there is a space between the legs  414  and  416 . The body is preferably formed from stainless steel. However other elastic metallic and polymeric materials are suitable. 
     The separator ring  410  has a clamp  420  mounted on the end of the leg  414 , and a clamp  422  mounted on the end of the leg  416 . The clamp  420  has an inwardly directed outer surface  424  that slopes upward and outward from side walls  426 ,  428  of the clamp  420  and reaches a ridge  432 . Likewise, the clamp  422  has an inwardly directed outer surface  434  that slopes upward and outward from side walls  436 ,  438  of the clamp  420  and reaches a ridge  439 . Looking at  FIG. 28 , the bottom of the clamp  422  has an upwardly directed concavity  444 . The bottom of the clamp  420  has a similar upwardly directed concavity (not shown). The upwardly directed concavity  444  allows the placement of a stabilizer with ends that do not separate (such as stabilizers  48   d ,  48   g ) under the upwardly directed concavity  444 . The separator ring  410  also has an arcuate cover  456 . The clamps  420 ,  422  and the cover  456  are preferably formed from a translucent elastomeric material such as a silicone or polyurethane elastomer. 
     Looking at  FIG. 25 , the clamp  422  of the separator ring  410  can be placed between the separate end members  63 ,  64  of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  with the ridge  439  directed inward toward the stabilizer  48  when the separator ring  410  is placed on the dental matrix stabilizer  48 . The clamp  420  of the separator ring  410  can also be placed between the opposite side end members of the dental matrix stabilizer  48  in a similar fashion. The translucent (preferably transparent) elastomeric material of the clamps  420 ,  422  allows the passage of light to cure restorative material in the tooth  12 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 29-31 , there is shown a top view of three adjacent teeth having three different cavity preparations. In tooth  510  of  FIGS. 29 and 30 , there is shown a conventional proximal box-shaped “slot” cavity preparation  515 . In tooth  520  of  FIG. 29 , there is shown a conventional mesio-occlusal cavity preparation  522  having a first box shaped mesial section  523 , a second intermediate section  524 , and an inner extension  525 . Typically, the distance from the occlusal to the floor of the mesial section  523  is greater than the distance from the occlusal to the floor of the intermediate section  524  which is greater than the distance from the occlusal to the floor of the inner extension  525 . Often, the inner extension  525  may be described as having a dovetail shape. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29 and 31 , a cavity preparation  532  according to the invention is shown in tooth  530  having an interproximal surface  531 . In the occlusal view of  FIG. 29 , a surface  534  which will form the interface between the restorative material and the tooth has a serpentine outline  535   a  from the cavity margin  536  to an intermediate point  538  of the cavity preparation  532 . Likewise, the surface  534  has a serpentine outline  535   b  from the cavity margin  541  to the intermediate point  538  of the cavity preparation  532 . Looking at  FIG. 31 , the surface  534  slopes in a curvilinear manner from occlusal to gingival. 
     Other variations of the cavity preparation  532  can be prepared. The hollow cavity preparation  532  can be saucer shaped from buccal view and occlusal view. No mechanical retention is necessarily present in the cavity form as all retention is based on enamel adhesion, augmented with dentin adhesion. All margins are therefore knife edge and disappearing in nature versus the abrupt margins of current cavity designs. In another variation all of the margins, occlusal, gingival, buccal and lingual may have serpentine outlines. These margins provide additional adhesion and an even more pronounced knife edge, more invisible and better sealed filling margins. 
     Thus, the invention provides improved methods, dental matrices, dental wedges, interdental matrix stabilizers, dental separator rings, dental curing light devices, and kits for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth. In the method, the filling material can be a single load of filling material that is cured in a single curing step in contrast to previous methods in which multiple two millimeter sections of filling material must be separately loaded and cured in multiple loading/curing steps. As a result, the method of the invention avoids the seams that are present between multiple two millimeter sections of filling material in prior methods. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be practiced by other than the described embodiments, which have been presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation. Therefore, the scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the embodiments contained herein.