Which type of matrix is used to restore primary teeth where a proximal surface is missing?

• A. T-band
• B. Tofflemire
• C. Sectional matrix
• D. Crown and band

Answer: (A)

When a primary tooth has a missing proximal surface, you need a matrix that can recreate that wall so the restorative material can be formed and contoured properly. The T-band is designed for this exact situation in deciduous dentition. It wraps around the tooth to establish a proximal wall where none exists, allowing the material to be placed and to form a correct contact with the adjacent tooth. Other matrix systems depend on an existing proximal wall or a stable box shape that isn’t present in a tooth with a missing proximal surface, making them less effective in this scenario. So the T-band is the appropriate choice to restore a primary tooth with a missing proximal surface.