New Technique for Wedge Selection in Direct Class II Restorations: A Pilot Study

• Published in: Journal of clinical medicine 2024-02, Vol.13 (5), p.1324
• Main Authors: Gancedo-Gancedo, Tania, Martín-Biedma, Benjamín, Domínguez-Cachón, Javier, Garrido-Parada, Sara, Ababii, Victoria, Pereira-Lores, Patricia, García-Varela, Sandra, Castelo-Baz, Pablo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Connective tissue; Gum disease; Pilot projects; Radiography; Teeth
• ISSN: 2077-0383; 2077-0383
• DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051324

Performing an appropriate Class II direct restoration is a great challenge. The correct selection of the matrix system and the elements used for its stabilization will have a great impact on the result. The aim of this study is to show a new digital method for a predictable selection of the wedge and compare it with the conventional method. Sixty patients were randomly divided into two groups. In Group 0, the wedge was selected intraoperatively by visual examination, while in Group 1 the wedge was selected preoperatively through the measurement of the cervical embrasure on the bite-wing radiography. The number of wedges used, modifications to them, and tissue damage were registered, along with the quality of the proximal contact and the marginal adaptation. Student's -test revealed a statistical difference between the number of wedges used, which was higher in Group 0 ( < 0.05). Pearson Chi-square test showed that tissue damage was statistically higher in Group 0 ( < 0.05), while there was no statistically significant difference between groups in wedge modifications ( > 0.05). Group 1 revealed a higher frequency of satisfactory proximal contact and marginal adaptation ( < 0.05). This new technique reduces wedges waste and tissue damage and provides an adequate interproximal anatomy.