Start here · Tools · Restorative (fillings)
Composite placement instrument
Also called: composite spatula, composite plastic instrument, nonstick instrument, Teflon-coated instrument
A coated paddle or condenser that places and shapes tooth-colored filling without sticking.
Composite is a sticky tooth-colored filling material. Composite instruments are often coated (for example gold, titanium nitride or a nonstick finish) or made of plastic so the material does not pull away. One end is usually a paddle to carry and shape, the other a small condenser to press.
How to spot it
- Smooth, often gold- or dark-colored coated tips; may be plastic.
- Paddle shape on one end, small round plugger on the other.
What it is used for
- Placing and shaping composite in small increments before light curing.
Safety and care
- Semicritical item (it touches the inside of the mouth): clean it, package it and heat-sterilize it after every patient.
- Do not scratch the coating with abrasive cleaners; a scratched tip lets composite stick.
Related
Sources: Ergodenta. Cement & Mixing Spatulas in Dentistry, Steps of resin composite restoration (journal article)