The Dental Head Start Podcast Dental Mentoring Series #6 – Beyond Basic Matrices: Elevating Your Restorative Game
Hosted by Dr David Keir
Ever placed a filling only to discover a weak contact point or frustrating overhang? The secret to restorations that truly last lies in one critical skill: mastering your matrix technique.
In this episode, Dr. David Keir shares practical wisdom on selecting and placing matrices for perfect restorations every time.
You’ll discover:
- Which matrix systems work best for specific clinical situations
- How to achieve firm contacts and prevent overhangs
- Simple techniques to ensure proper gingival seals
- The game-changing “saddle matrix” for challenging distal restorations
- When to consider pre-wedging and how to properly use Teflon
Whether you’re placing Class II composites or tackling complex anterior restorations, these tried-and-tested techniques will transform your restorative outcomes and save you valuable chair time.
Ready to elevate your restorative game? Like, share, and subscribe for more practical dental tips that will help you build a foundation of excellence!
Key moments
00:00 – Introduction to Matrix Selection
02:45 – Different Matrix Types Explained
05:26 – Specialized Matrix Options
08:23 – Strategic Matrix Selection Tips
11:53 – Creating Ideal Contacts
15:07 – Preventing Margin Voids and Overhangs
17:42 – Assessing Adjacent Teeth
20:13 – Matrix Height and Proper Sealing
21:39 – Anterior Restoration Techniques
23:15 – Outro and Next Episode Preview
Thank you to our sponsors…
Dental Protection Limited
Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you
Dental Advice Network
This episode of the Dental Head Start Podcast is proudly supported by Dental Advice Network.
Whether you’re one year out or forty, we all have clinical questions—and it’s OK not to have all the answers. That’s exactly why the Dental Advice Network exists. With leading experts like Dr Omar Ikram (Endodontist), Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist), Dr Steven Parker (Dental Sedationist), Dr Manu Ayer (Specialist Anaesthetist), Professor Ian Myers (Restorative expert), Dr Kar Mun Chan (Specialist Paediatric Dentist) and Associate Professor Geraldine Moses (Dental Therapeutics and Pharmacology expert), it’s your go-to place for clinical advice, case support, and evidence-based insights.
From medication queries to red flags in oral pathology—or even just a second opinion—Dental Advice Network connects you to trusted voices in dentistry and medicine, including an in-house medical doctor. You’ll also get access to clinical webinars, CPD content, and curated updates to stay ahead in your practice.
It’s peace of mind, peer support, and education—all in one place.
And for Dental Head Start listeners, we’ve teamed up with Dental Advice Network to bring you an exclusive 10% discount when you subscribe. Just use the code HEADSTART10 at checkout. Plus—if you’re a first-year graduate, you already get a massive 50% off.
Check them out at dentaladvicenetwork.com.au, and thank you to Dental Advice Network for supporting the next generation of dental professionals and the Dental Head Start podcast.
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