Who is qualified to place and remove matrices and wedges for restorations?

In the context of placing and removing matrices and wedges for dental restorations, the Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA) is specifically trained and certified to perform these tasks. This certification allows EDDA professionals to carry out certain expanded duties that go beyond the traditional scope of a dental assistant, which typically does not include performing procedures directly related to the placement of matrices and wedges for restorative work.

EDDAs are educated in the techniques and best practices to ensure that these components are applied correctly, which is crucial for the success of restorations. Their training includes understanding how to provide support during restorative procedures, which requires an understanding of dental materials and the anatomy of the tooth, aligning with the responsibilities laid out for EDDAs in state regulations.

While dentists and dental hygienists have their distinct roles, placing and removing matrices and wedges falls within the proficiency of an EDDA, who is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist effectively in restorative dentistry. An office manager, on the other hand, is typically responsible for administrative tasks and not clinical procedures, further clarifying the role of an EDDA in this scenario.