Calibra consists of two terminals: “IN” which defines the dentinal skeleton. “OUT” which allows to verifythe thickness and shape of the last layer without excess.
This instrument is in fact both the first caliper ever produced to check the thickness (a practical alternative to the sagittal silicone index) and the first modeling tool ever produced for the last layer.
If you use a dentin / enamel system, you can use Calibra in the following way. (If you use only one shade, go to the description of the Calibra OUT):
By carefully following this procedure, you will have given the right anatomical curvature from the preparation margin to the incisal margin, you will have left the space necessary for the last layer of enamel, and you will have reserved an incisal slot useful for placing any translucent effect shades.
For the function of checking the thicknesses (how much space is left for the surface layer): place the instrument on the incisal margin (with the relative stop) and the terminal beyond the preparation margin. For the modeling function: Slide the tool on the incisal margin (with the relative stop) by pressing the terminal lightly beyond the preparation margin. Start from the center of the tooth / restoration by moving the Calibra OUT first towards the mesial and, subsequently, from the median towards the distal; then remove the composite surpluses.
By following the procedure carefully, you will have avoided the composite over-contour at the preparation margin and, when applying the last layer of enamel, you will have anatomically connected the preparation margin with the incisal margin.
Calibra helps to:
Calibra acts as a guide, helping to prevent over-contouring at the preparation margin while assisting in reducing excess composite thickness build up as well as modeling the final layer of composite material.
