Mylar strips are best described as what?

• A. Clear, plastic strips used on Class III, IV restoration on anterior teeth.
• B. Finishing discs for posterior teeth.
• C. Light-curing unit used for composite.
• D. Instrument used to place calcium hydroxide.

Answer: (A)

Mylar strips are clear plastic matrices used for shaping and isolating composite restorations on the front teeth. They’re especially helpful for Class III and Class IV restorations on anterior teeth because their transparency lets you see the prep and properly contour the restoration while creating a smooth, well-supported proximal surface. The strip threads between teeth and, often with a wedge, provides a temporary, flexible mold against which the composite can cure, helping to prevent sticking to adjacent surfaces and ensuring good contact and esthetics. They’re not finishing discs, a curing unit, or an instrument for placing calcium hydroxide, which is why those options don’t fit.