Abstract: A dental matrix for containing a light curable composite restorative inserted in a prepared tooth is provided including a contour portion and flange portions for engaging the tooth and composite restoration. A flange portion is provided with a port positionable to allow a curing light beam to reach the restorative to induce hardening of the composite and influence direction of shrinkage incidental to curing of the composite.

Abstract: A light shield device (13) which is attached to light wands (30) of various diameters to filter and redirect reflected light. The shield has a planar part (13) with an attached retainer column (20) mounted in an off-center location, a see-through mirror (16) in a central location, and a reflective Fresnel lens configuration (14) at its outer perimeter. The device is formed of plastics which filter some radiation. The shield permits an operator to monitor light applications without harmful eye irritations.

Abstract: A dental separator and matrix stabilizing device (40) for applying pressure against adjacent teeth (68, 70) to temporarily force the teeth apart from one another for dental and orthodontic procedures. The device (40) includes a spring yoke (42), opposing tines (46), and engagement structures (44). The opposing tines (46) are adapted for wedging between interdental surfaces of the adjacent teeth (68, 70). The engagement structures (44) are adapted for receiving a spreading instrument (58). The opposing tines (46) engage the profile of a tooth along a zone of contact. The device is adapted be used in combination with a plurality of like devices (40, 40′).

Abstract: A laminated pad of gauze (10), cellulose, sponge (18), abrasive tiles or other functional materials, can be attached to a glove (14) or an affixed adhesive layer (12). A protective sheet (13) may be provided over the adhesive layer to protect it prior to use. The pad is attached, using the adhesive, to the back (15) of a glove or to garments or body surfaces or work surfaces. The pad is arranged to cleanse, wet or shape tool nibs and to hold small parts for future usage The pad can also be attached with a strap (32.

Abstract: A hand held tool to expedite a removal of a single sheet from a stack which may be supplied as a segment of a container or an independent unit and modifications to a container to resist a return of a separated sheet to its original position on the stack.

Abstract: A dental shim insertable between two adjacent teeth adapted in the restoration procedure of a decayed tooth comprises a unitary, flexible metallic body having an arcuate top portion and an arcuate bottom portion. The shim comprises at least one notch in the edge of the top portion thereof to facilitate positioning of the shim between the two teeth and to provide a release of strain induced by adapting the shim to a tooth curvature. The shim may include an apron member formed in the bottom portion and a lining veneer covering the concave surface of its bottom. The shim is easily removable after the tooth restoration is complete.

Abstract: A dental matrix or band applicable around a tooth or portion of a tooth undergoing a restoration of a cavity (17) to control the shape of the restorative material. The matrix is made of a thin strip of metal and features a bulbous concavity in its middle portion to simulate the contours normal to a tooth, a malleable apron (13, 23) which expedites its adaptation to the irregular contours of a tooth root, notches on the edges of the apron to permit control of the shape at all edges, and extending wings to facilitate wrapping of the matrix around a tooth being restored. The central portion of the matrix is malleable to permit it to be manipulated or shaped by the dentist to perfect its shape, while the wings are hardened to increase the force of the embrace of the matrix.