Clinical Tips: FenderWedge
Protection and Separation

FenderWedge prevents damage to the adjacent tooth and gingiva that commonly occurs during Class II preparations. FenderWedge is a combination of a steel plate and a plastic wedge. It facilitates easy application of a matrix. To avoid aspiration it is recommended to secure FenderWedge with a waxed dental floss.

The importance of protecting the adjacent tooth

Bur damage to neighbouring teeth is sadly a common problem in the everyday dental practice. Research proves that teeth are damaged in more than 70% of all cases during Class II preparations.*

" We all take out proximal fillings and see big bur damage to the approximal surface. We grandly look at them and think how clumsy the previous dentist must have been - but then it happens to us! It is not always our fault however. That enemy, the tongue, can often drive the hand piece and bur straight forward at a critical time, even with the best finger rests. So, if you are like me and accept it may happen, you want to protect the adjacent tooth. I have found the Directa FenderWedge is by far the easiest and most cost-effective protection product to date. "

- Dr Malcolm Cook. 
Smile Doctor, Mona Vale, New South Wales, Australia

"Prepare precise cavities quicker and more confidently without damage to adjacent teeth or gingiva"

Separates during preparation (pic.1).  Protects adjacent tooth and gingiva (pic.2)

Why should I use FenderWedge?

FenderWedge prevents damage to the adjacent tooth and gingiva that can occur during Class II preparations. FenderWedge is a combination of a steel plate and a plastic wedge. Inserted into the interproximal space, it protects the tissue and separates the teeth thus simplifying the application of a matrix.

Four different sizes

FenderWedge is available in four colour-coded sizes. Choose the size that will have to be inserted with a firm pressure - it will provide better separation and will stay in place throughout the preparation. FenderWedge can be inserted buccally or lingually.  

FenderWedge separation and protection (pic.1). FenderWedge protects the adjacent tooth papilla (pic.2). After use FenderWedge clearly shows traces of bur contact (pic.3). 

How should I use FenderWedge?

Insert FenderWedge buccally or lingually for optimal access and vision. The four colours indicate the thickness of the wedge. Always choose the one giving the highest resistance when placed, to assure optimal separation and to stay in place during the treatment. You can work fast and safe. If you touch anything it will not be the adjacent tooth. The plastic wedge might be damaged during the preparation but the procedure may be continued as the protective plate inside the wedge reaches down to the gingival margin. If the protective plate is perforated FenderWedge should be replaced. Should any damage occur to the plastic wedge during preparation the procedure may be continued, as the protective plate inside the wedge reaches down to the gingiva. When FenderWedge is removed some bleeding may occur. This is caused by pressure on the tissue.

Technique

- Inserts as a wedge, buccally or lingually
- Protects adjacent tooth and gingiva
- Typical state of FenderWedge after use

* Qvist V Johannessen L, Bruun M (J Dent Res 1992 Jul; 71 (7): 1370-3 Lussi A, Gygax M. (J Dent. 1998 Jul-Aug; 26 (5-6):435-41), Medeiros VA, Seddon RP (J Dent. 20000 Feb; 28 (2): 103-10))