Table 1: Comparison of Dental Wedges by Quantity
| Item Name | Quantity per Package | Material | Compressibility | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palodent® Plus Wedge Refill | 100 | Not specified | Compresses on entry and flares upon exit | Not specified |
| Wizard Wedges® Matrix Wedges | Not specified | Birch Wood | Not specified | Anatomically shaped |
| Sycamore Wood Wedges | 400 | Sycamore Wood | Slightly compressible | Square end, concave sides, and round tip |
| Wizard Wedges® Anatomical Matrix Wedges | Not specified | Birch Wood | Not specified | Anatomical contour |
| Palodent® Plus Wedgeguard Refills | 50 | Not specified | Compresses on entry and flares upon exit | Not specified |
| Wonder Wedges® Interproximal Wooden Wedges | Not specified | Sycamore Wood | Not specified | Anatomically conformed |
| FenderWedge® | 36 | Stainless Steel and Plastic | Not specified | Not specified |
| Uni-Wedge | 250 | Plastic | Not specified | Not specified |
| The Wedge – Transparent | Not specified | Elastomeric thermoplastic polymers | Not specified | Anatomical shape |
| Contact Wedge Refill | 85 | Elastic | Not specified | Not specified |
Table 2: Comparison of Dental Wedges by Features
| Item Name | Features | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palodent® Plus Wedge Refill | Hollow underside for placement of second wedge | Easy placement and seal | Material not specified | Used to separate teeth |
| Wizard Wedges® Matrix Wedges | Crafted from birch wood for greater tooth separation | Better access and stable holding | Not compressible | Used to hold matrix systems during restorative procedures |
| Sycamore Wood Wedges | Square end, concave sides, and round tip; Wedge number designates length of wedge in mm | Easy insertion and removal, conforms the matrix band to the tooth’s anatomy | Not as compressible as other materials | Used to separate teeth and compensate for the thickness of the matrix band |
| Wizard Wedges® Anatomical Matrix Wedges | Exclusive multiplane contour that firmly engages adjoining teeth to hold the matrix in position; Color coded for convenience | Not splintering | Not compressible | Used to hold matrix systems during restorative procedures |
| Palodent® Plus Wedgeguard Refills | Hollow underside for placement of second wedge | Easy placement and seal | Material not specified | Used to separate teeth |
| Wonder Wedges® Interproximal Wooden Wedges | Anatomically conformed interproximal wooden wedges made of sycamore wood; Will not chip or splinter | Keep filling and restorative materials in the matrix, reduce the formation of overhangs, easily removed | Not compressible | Used to hold matrix bands while performing multi-functional procedures |
| FenderWedge® | Combination of a wedge and a protective stainless steel plate; Facilitates easy placement of matrix and establishment of contact points | Accommodates most narrow spaces easily | Material not specified | Used to protect adjacent teeth during Class II preparation |
| Uni-Wedge | Flexible, made of plastic and will not break or splinter; Designed with finger grips to facilitate use | Will not break or splinter | Not compressible | Meant to replace standard wooden wedges |
| The Wedge – Transparent | Anatomical shape and a head that provides for easy insertion with cotton pliers; Structured surface permits optimum reflection |
Top 10 Restorative Dentistry Products
1. Palodent® Plus Wedge Refill – DENTSPLY Caulk
Product Description
Palodent® Plus Wedges by DENTSPLY Caulk are advanced dental wedges designed for optimal interproximal adaptation during Class II restorative procedures. Their flexible design compresses upon entry and flares upon exit to ensure secure placement and a tight seal.
Product Overview
These wedges feature a hollow underside, allowing a second wedge to be placed from the opposite side for enhanced matrix adaptation when needed. The anatomic shape and adaptive fit improve marginal integrity, reduce flash, and simplify placement during restorative procedures involving tight interproximal spaces.
Key Features
Compresses on entry and flares on exit for secure seal
Hollow underside allows dual wedge placement
Anatomic design enhances matrix band adaptation
Improves marginal seal and reduces overhangs
Simplifies placement in tight contacts
Compatible with Palodent® Plus matrix systems
Ideal for Class II restorations
Common Applications
Class II composite restorations
Interproximal matrix band stabilization
Enhancing marginal integrity in posterior restorations
Dual-wedge technique for deeper preparations
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Palodent® Plus Wedge Refill
Brand: DENTSPLY Caulk
Design: Compressible entry, flared exit, hollow underside
Use: Single or dual wedge placement
Compatibility: Palodent® Plus matrix systems
Use Case: Class II posterior restorations
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Easy to place and holds securely
Great anatomical fit with excellent marginal control
Highly recommended for tight interproximal contacts
2. Wizard Wedges® Matrix Wedges – Water Pik Technologies Inc
Product Description
Wizard Wedges® are wooden matrix wedges designed to provide stable support and secure placement of matrix bands during restorative dental procedures. Made from high-quality birch wood, these wedges offer excellent tooth separation and reliable performance.
Product Overview
The natural resilience of birch wood allows for better adaptation and interproximal separation. These wedges offer enhanced access during placement and ensure matrix systems remain stable throughout the restoration process. Their design promotes faster and more accurate repositioning of teeth once the wedge is removed.
Key Features
Provides stable holding of matrix systems
Made from durable birch wood
Promotes effective interproximal tooth separation
Improves access during restorative procedures
Encourages quicker tooth repositioning after removal
Reliable for use in tight interproximal contacts
Common Applications
Class II composite restorations
Stabilizing matrix bands during posterior fillings
Tooth separation for restorative access
General restorative dentistry procedures
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Wizard Wedges® Matrix Wedges
Brand: Water Pik Technologies Inc
Material: Birch wood
Function: Matrix stabilization and tooth separation
Use Case: Posterior restorative procedures
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Strong and effective wedge with natural adaptability
Provides firm matrix support
Highly preferred for wooden wedge applications
3. Sycamore Wood Wedges – Premier Dental Products
Product Description
Sycamore Wood Wedges by Premier Dental Products are anatomically carved wooden wedges used to provide optimal tooth separation and matrix band adaptation during restorative procedures. Designed for ease of use and clinical precision, these wedges help ensure a tight seal and accurate contouring.
Product Overview
Made from durable, slightly compressible sycamore wood, these wedges are resistant to splintering—even in thin sections. The square end allows for easy insertion and removal, while the concave sides adapt the matrix band to the natural tooth anatomy. The rounded tip gently passes over the gingiva, enhancing patient comfort during placement.
Key Features
Anatomically carved for optimal adaptation
Made of compressible sycamore wood
Won’t splinter, even in thin sizes
Square end enables easy insertion/removal
Concave sides conform matrix to tooth contour
Rounded tip designed for smooth gingival passage
Wedge numbers indicate length in mm for precise selection
Common Applications
Matrix band stabilization during Class II restorations
Tooth separation in posterior restorations
Preventing overhangs and improving marginal fit
Adaptation for tight interproximal spaces
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Sycamore Wood Wedges
Brand: Premier Dental Products
Material: Sycamore wood
Shape: Square end, concave sides, round tip
Compression: Slightly compressible
Length Identification: Numbered by mm
Use Case: Matrix band support and tooth separation
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Strong and splinter-free
Excellent anatomical adaptation
Clinician favorite for traditional wood wedges
4. Wizard Wedges® Anatomical Matrix Wedges
Product Description
Wizard Wedges® Anatomical Matrix Wedges are precision-contoured wooden wedges designed to provide secure and stable matrix band placement during restorative procedures. Crafted from durable birchwood, these wedges feature an exclusive multiplane shape for enhanced interproximal engagement.
Product Overview
These anatomical wedges are engineered to firmly engage adjoining teeth, holding the matrix band in place and reducing the risk of overhangs or open margins. Made from nonsplintering birchwood, they ensure a smooth insertion and removal experience. Color-coded for quick size identification, they help streamline clinical workflow and improve procedural efficiency.
Key Features
Multiplane anatomical contour for secure matrix placement
Firmly engages adjoining teeth
Nonsplintering birchwood for safe, smooth handling
Color-coded for easy size selection
Stable, accurate matrix support
Designed for optimal adaptation and marginal seal
Common Applications
Class II and interproximal restorative procedures
Matrix band stabilization during posterior restorations
Preventing marginal gaps and overhangs
Use in general and esthetic restorative dentistry
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Wizard Wedges® Anatomical Matrix Wedges
Material: Birchwood
Design: Multiplane anatomical contour
Splinter Resistance: Nonsplintering
Color-Coded: Yes, for size identification
Use Case: Matrix stabilization in restorative procedures
Customer Feedback
Reliable wedge for strong matrix engagement
Easy to select and insert
Highly rated for consistent marginal adaptation
5. Palodent® Plus Wedgeguard Refills – DENTSPLY Caulk
Product Description
Palodent® Plus Wedgeguard Refills are advanced dental wedges combined with a protective shield to simplify and safeguard Class II restorations. The wedgeguard combines the benefits of a wedge with a built-in guard to protect adjacent teeth from bur contact during cavity preparation.
Product Overview
These wedgeguards compress on entry and flare upon exit, providing a tight seal and easy placement. The hollow underside design allows a second wedge to be inserted from the opposite side when needed. With integrated protection and matrix adaptation, they streamline restorative procedures and enhance clinical outcomes.
Key Features
Integrated wedge and protective guard in one device
Compresses on entry and flares on exit for secure seal
Hollow underside allows second wedge placement
Prevents accidental damage to adjacent teeth
Improves efficiency and safety in Class II preparations
Ideal for use with the Palodent® Plus matrix system
Common Applications
Class II composite preparations and restorations
Protecting adjacent teeth during cavity preparation
Matrix band stabilization and wedge placement
Posterior restorative procedures requiring access and precision
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Palodent® Plus Wedgeguard Refills
Brand: DENTSPLY Caulk
Design: Wedge with integrated protective guard
Function: Seal, protect, and stabilize
Placement: Compress-on-entry, flare-on-exit
Compatibility: Palodent® Plus matrix system
Use Case: Class II posterior restorations
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Great for reducing prep time and improving safety
Highly effective for interproximal protection
Simplifies wedge and matrix placement in one step
6. Wonder Wedges® Interproximal Wooden Wedges
Product Description
Wonder Wedges® Interproximal Wooden Wedges are anatomically shaped wedges made from sycamore wood, designed to stabilize matrix bands during restorative procedures. They help maintain material placement and improve restoration quality by minimizing overhangs.
Product Overview
These wedges are ideal for multi-functional dental procedures where proper band adaptation is critical. Their anatomical design conforms to the interproximal space, ensuring a snug fit without chipping or splintering. Easy to insert and remove, Wonder Wedges® promote better outcomes by holding materials securely and simplifying post-procedure polishing.
Key Features
Anatomically conformed for interproximal adaptation
Made of strong, splinter-free sycamore wood
Holds matrix bands securely in place
Reduces overhangs and simplifies polishing
Easily inserted and removed
Durable and comfortable for patients
Common Applications
Matrix band stabilization during Class II restorations
Maintaining composite or amalgam within the prep
Preventing overhangs in posterior restorations
Supporting multi-functional restorative procedures
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Wonder Wedges® Interproximal Wooden Wedges
Material: Sycamore wood
Design: Anatomical interproximal fit
Splintering: Will not chip or splinter
Function: Matrix band support and overhang reduction
Use Case: General and esthetic restorative dentistry
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Reliable fit and easy handling
Excellent for tight contacts and consistent restorations
Smooth insertion with no risk of wood fragments
7. FenderWedge® – Directa Inc
Product Description
FenderWedge® is a dual-function dental wedge that combines a traditional interproximal wedge with a thin, stainless steel protective plate. Designed to fit easily into tight spaces, it provides both tooth separation and protection of adjacent teeth during restorative preparations.
Product Overview
This innovative wedge pre-separates teeth by a few tenths of a millimeter, improving the final contact point during Class II restorations. The built-in metal plate shields adjacent teeth from bur contact while aiding matrix placement. FenderWedge® is quick to insert, stays firmly in place, and enhances both safety and clinical precision.
Key Features
Combination wedge and stainless steel protective shield
Thin profile fits easily in narrow interproximal spaces
Pre-separates teeth to aid in contact formation
Protects adjacent teeth from damage during prep
Facilitates matrix placement and stabilization
Stays securely in place once inserted
Easy to use, with no additional steps required
Common Applications
Class II restorative cavity preparations
Protecting adjacent teeth during preparation
Enhancing matrix placement and contact point building
Tooth separation and stabilization during posterior restorations
Technical Specifications
Product Name: FenderWedge®
Brand: Directa Inc
Material: Wood wedge + stainless steel shield
Function: Protection, separation, and stabilization
Design: Slim, pre-separating wedge
Use Case: Class II restorations and matrix support
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Highly effective for interproximal protection
Easy to place and stays put during procedures
Speeds up workflow while improving results
8. Uni-Wedge – Hager Worldwide
Product Description
Uni-Wedge by Hager Worldwide is a flexible plastic dental wedge designed to replace traditional wooden wedges. It offers a splinter-free, user-friendly solution for matrix stabilization during restorative procedures.
Product Overview
Made of durable plastic, Uni-Wedge maintains interproximal separation without breaking or chipping. The added finger grips make insertion and removal easier, improving efficiency and comfort during procedures. Its flexibility allows for precise adaptation to a variety of tooth anatomies, ensuring secure matrix band support.
Key Features
Flexible plastic construction for adaptability
Will not break, chip, or splinter
Designed to replace standard wooden wedges
Finger grips for easier handling and placement
Provides secure matrix band support
Comfortable for patients and clinicians
Common Applications
Matrix band stabilization in restorative procedures
Tooth separation for Class II restorations
Safe alternative to wooden wedges
Improved control in tight interproximal contacts
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Uni-Wedge
Brand: Hager Worldwide
Material: Plastic
Design: Flexible with finger grips
Splinter-Free: Yes
Use Case: Matrix placement and tooth separation
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Easy to use with reliable performance
No risk of splintering
Preferred for its flexibility and ergonomic design
9. The Wedge – Transparent by Polydentia SA
Product Description
The Wedge – Transparent by Polydentia SA is an anatomically shaped interdental wedge made from a unique blend of elastomeric thermoplastic polymers. It is designed to ensure full adaptation of the matrix band along the cervical margin, including difficult-to-reach concave areas.
Product Overview
Its transparency and structured surface enable optimal light reflection, supporting full polymerization of light-cured composites. The wedge’s flexible, soft material allows for excellent seal and patient comfort, while the contoured head facilitates easy insertion using cotton pliers. It is compatible with Polydentia’s Maximat Plus matrix tensioning system.
Key Features
Made from elastomeric thermoplastic for flexibility and softness
Ensures complete adaptation of the matrix, even in concave zones
Transparent design enhances light transmission for optimal curing
Anatomical shape improves seal and patient comfort
Textured surface supports full polymerization of composites
Easy to insert with cotton pliers
Compatible with Maximat Plus matrix system
Common Applications
Matrix band stabilization during Class II restorations
Enhanced adaptation in cervical and concave interproximal areas
Optimal light curing of composite materials
Use with matrix tensioning systems in restorative dentistry
Technical Specifications
Product Name: The Wedge – Transparent
Brand: Polydentia SA
Material: Elastomeric thermoplastic polymer
Color: Transparent
Compatibility: Maximat Plus matrix system
Application: Interproximal separation and matrix adaptation
Use Case: Light-cured restorative procedures
Customer Ratings
Rating: Not available
Customer Feedback
Exceptional matrix adaptation and comfort
Improves light curing in deep preps
Preferred for use with clear matrices and esthetic restorations
10. Contact Wedge Refill – Danville Materials
Product Description
The Contact Wedge by Danville Materials is an elastic dental wedge designed to provide superior cervical adaptation and sealing. Its unique construction allows for a snug fit in the interproximal space, promoting optimal contact and contour in restorative procedures.
Product Overview
This wedge offers fast and easy placement using rubber dam forceps or ring pliers, improving procedural efficiency. Its elastic material adapts naturally to the tooth anatomy, ensuring reliable matrix support and a tight cervical seal that helps prevent overhangs and gaps.
Key Features
Elastic wedge for optimal cervical adaptation
Provides a superior seal at the gingival margin
Fast placement with rubber dam forceps or ring pliers
Flexible design conforms to tooth anatomy
Promotes accurate contact formation
Ideal for efficient matrix placement
Common Applications
Class II restorative procedures
Matrix band stabilization and adaptation
Ensuring cervical seal during posterior restorations
Improving contact and contour in composite fillings
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Contact Wedge Refill
Brand: Danville Materials
Material: Elastic polymer
Placement Tools: Rubber dam forceps or ring pliers
Function: Cervical sealing and matrix support
Use Case: Posterior interproximal restorations
Customer Feedback
Easy to place and stays secure
Excellent cervical seal and contour control
Highly recommended for Class II composites
