Practice abstract
British Dental Journal 197, 527 - 534 (2004)
Published online: 13 November 2004 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4811799
Verifiable CPD Paper:
Endodontics: Part 6 Rubber dam and access cavities
P Carrotte1
- Rubber dam is essential for effective isolation of the root canal and operating field from salivary bacteria, as well as protection of the airway.
- Only a very small number of rubber dam clamps are required for the efficient application of rubber dam, which must be supported by a well-trained dental nurse.
- Success in modern endodontic treatment may be dependent upon a well-designed access cavity to permit straight-line access to all the main root canals.
Endodontics
- The modern concept of root canal treatment
- Diagnosis and treatment planning
- Treatment of endodontic emergencies
- Morphology of the root canal system
- Basic instruments and materials for root canal treatment
- Rubber dam and access cavities
- Preparing the root canal
- Filling the root canal system
- Calcium hydroxide, root resorption, endo-perio lesions
- Endodontic treatment for children
- Surgical endodontics
- Endodontic problems
Abstract
Rubber dam is easy to apply once the basic components and principles are understood. An efficient and well-trained dental nurse will greatly facilitate the application procedure. Although preparation of the access cavity may be commenced before rubber dam is applied to enable anatomical landmarks to be followed, the rubber dam should be placed as soon as possible with adequate protection against contamination of the access. The access cavity reflects the shape of the pulp chamber, modified by the angle of instrument approach.
- Clinical Lecturer, Department of Adult Dental Care, Glasgow Dental Hospital and School, 378 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3JZ
Correspondence to: P Carrotte1 e-mail: p.carrotte@dental.gla.ac.uk