Dental wedge with elastomeric sides for enhanced retention

Abstract

The invention generally provides for a dental wedge with elastomeric sides. The body of the dental wedge comprises a head and a tip and generally tapers from the head to the tip. The body of the dental wedge also comprises recessed or mounting surfaces located on each side of the tapered body. Layers, strips, or other forms of elastomeric material are affixed to each of the mounting surfaces. When the dental wedge is inserted between adjacent teeth, the layers of elastomeric material are compressed between the teeth and the body of the dental wedge in such as way as to conform to the contours and irregularities of the tooth surfaces. This generally increases the friction that is applied between the dental wedge and the teeth, thereby providing the dental wedge with increased retention capabilities for remaining in place. The dental wedge can also hold a form against a tooth.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.