A clinical technique for the retention of a rubber dam clamp

Manipulation of rubber dam septa: an aid to the meticulous isolation of splinted prostheses

Splinted prostheses are a problem in endodontic isolation. The traditional solution of resorting to a slit-dam technique results in an unrestrained curtain of rubber dam which not only allows for saliva seepage but can serve to compromise the endodontic access opening. This article introduces a simple, yet effective, method of improving the seal of isolated splinted prostheses. It relies on the manipulation and ligation of rubber dam septa with dental floss. Two pictorial clinical reports depict the technique and demonstrate the ease of attaining isolation with splinted prostheses.

Solving endodontic isolation problems with interim buildups of reinforced glass ionomer cement

A technique is presented for the expedient placement of interim buildups of type II glass ionomer cement as an aid for endodontic isolation of broken down teeth. The bond strength of glass ionomer cement to tooth structure is sufficient to withstand the forces of endodontic manipulation without the need for reinforcing pins. The material also shows promise as an intermediate endodontic seal. Variations of this technique are presented to address some other common isolation problems and the esthetic needs of the patient.