Taking the optical image

For those clinicians who powder without a rubber dam, taking the optical image without disturbing the powder placement can be challenging. The following information will make getting the optical image in even the most difficult clinical situations very predictable.

The Isolite, shown above can make can be extremely helpful in protecting the preparation area from the tongue. More information about the Isolite can be found here.

This mirror image seen below shows how easily an upper second molar is isolated with this device.

The above photo shows a preop powdering to be matched with the prep image shown below.

Notice the excellent powdering that easily results with the use of the Power Meister.

Due to a gag reflex, some patients cannot tolerate the Isolite in the mouth. For those patients, the Linguafix from the Zirc Company is very helpful.

The Linguafix is shown inserted in the mouth above.

Another effective way of holding back an unruly tongue is to use a Dry-tip shown below.

The Svedopter is preferred by some clinicians as a tongue retractor.

Don't forget the obvious! The use of a bite block can be very helpful with some patients. This can help create room for the camera in patients with limited opening.