[Cervico-approximal "Sofort" polishing of amalgam fillings. Optimizing filling quality]

Results from SEM-evaluation indicates that finishing the gingivoproximal part of freshly restored amalgam restorations with interproximal finishing strips (fine and x-fine grits) produces an improvement in marginal integrity and surface smoothness. For clinical success the procedure requires both only moderate trimming of the proximal cavity margin and using a fast setting spherical alloy. In case of admixture or lathecut alloys the interproximal finishing within the first 25 minutes after trituration causes an unwelcome roughness of the restorations surface texture and is therefore contraindicated.