Abstract: A hand tool engages a pair of opposing matrix wedges that are able to mutually nest when pressed into an interproximal space between adjacent teeth. The hand tool draws a floss tightly thereby causing the wedges mounted on it to move convergently. The wedge elements support a thin matrix band which takes the necessary shape to secure a class II dental preparation.

Abstract: A dental tool apparatus for use with a curing lamp in filling a tooth preparation, has an elongate handle, and with the elongate handle held in a horizontal attitude, one end of the elongate handle extends upwardly at an angle of between 20 and 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal. The one end of the elongate handle engages a light transmissive utility element having an upwardly facing convex top surface, a cone shaped body extending downwardly from the top surface, and a workpiece extending downwardly from the cone shaped body. With the elongate handle held in the horizontal attitude, the workpiece presents a vertical contact surface for pushing on a vertical surface of the tooth preparation.

Abstract: A light concentrating dental tool apparatus has an elongate handle defining a longitudinal axis and a light transmissive utility element at one or both ends of the handle. The utility element providing an outwardly facing, light receiving, top surface, and a downwardly converging cone-shaped body terminating with an integral workpiece adapted for moving a dental matrix band. A light disbursing surface directs light outwardly for curing a dental resin. The light disbursing surface provides a downwardly directed flat portion used for leverage against the dental preparation, and a downwardly curved portion in mutually opposing juxtaposition, for pressing against the matrix band. The flat and the curved portions define a common axis of symmetry forming an angle with said longitudinal axis so as to allow the tool to be used to provide improved visibility by the practitioner. A tapered mounting structure enables the utility element to be removed and reset within the handle at a selected angle.

Abstract: A light-concentrating dental tool apparatus for use with a visible light curing lamp. The apparatus is comprised of: an elongate handle, including a medially positioned enlarged portion, approximately spherical, providing both distal and mesial end utility elements, the utility elements being made of a light-transparent and light-transmissive material. The distal and mesial end utility elements include a resting and positioning device for the visible light curing lamp, including convex upward facing distal and mesial end surfaces integral with cone-shaped distal and mesial end bodies, preferably hyperbolically-shaped. The end bodies terminate at distal and mesial end workpieces integral with and depending from the end bodies. The distal and mesial end workpieces provide end light disbursing devices for directing a maximum amount of light outwardly therefrom.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for preparing a tight proximal contact between a tooth to be filled and an adjacent tooth. A tool head provides a first convex surface extending downwardly to a linear ridge. The head is divided into a pair of side-by-side fingers separated by a channel. The linear ridge defines the tip of each finger. The head is of a size to fit into a prepared cavity in a tooth. The head further provides a stepped surface, in opposition to the first convex surface, that extends downwardly to the linear ridge. Alternately, the head provides a second convex surface, in opposition to the first convex surface, that extends downwardly to the linear ridge. An elongated tool handle has a first and a second opposing bent ends. The first bent end has a 90.degree. bend, and the second bent end has a 45.degree. bend, such that the single tool may enable the formation of both distal and mesial contacts.