ADEX Exam Prep Course Preview: Rubber Dam Placement, Prep Techniques & More!

Sep 4 / ADEX Academy
Preparing for the ADEX Dental Exam requires precision, skill, and confidence.

Even small mistakes can cost valuable points, which is why mastering the essential techniques is crucial.

In this blog post, we give you an exclusive preview of Dr. Nasiry’s ADEX Exam Prep Course, covering rubber dam placement, Class II and Class III preps, and practical tips to ensure exam success.

Watch the Technique in Action: Rubber Dam Placement & Prep Techniques


Mastering Rubber Dam Placement for the ADEX Exam

Proper isolation is key to a successful ADEX exam.

Rubber dam placement ensures a dry field, improved visibility, and safer prep for both anterior and posterior teeth.

Dr. Nasiry demonstrates how to isolate teeth effectively while maintaining proper technique.

  • Anterior Teeth Isolation: Clamp the pre-molars and isolate the front eight teeth for proper access.

  • Posterior Teeth: Ensure at least one tooth on either side of the prep tooth is rubber dammed.

  • Quadrant Isolation: For optimal visualization, consider isolating the entire quadrant if possible.

Step-by-Step Guide: Prep Techniques for Class II and Class III Cavities

1. Use the Right Burr

For Class III preps, Dr. Nasiry recommends a 330 burr, which is one millimeter wide at the tip. It allows for precise control and accurate outline form.

2. Start Your Prep Correctly

Begin slightly underneath the contact area and carefully measure depth to avoid over-prepping. Accuracy here ensures proper marginal ridge height and wall placement.

3. Manage Your Matrix Effectively

Place your sectional matrix so the top aligns with the marginal ridge height. Proper placement ensures correct contouring and reduces adjustments later.

4. Know the Walls of Your Prep

Class III: Incisal wall, facial wall, axial wall, gingival floor.
Class II: Identify internal walls that don’t touch the exterior.

Follow the depth requirements: premolars 1 mm from DJ, molars 1.5 mm.

5. Maintain Proper Isolation Throughout

Use fingers or clamps to ensure your rubber dam stays in place and the prep area remains fully isolated during the procedure.

Why Dr. Nasiry’s Techniques Work

These techniques are designed to give ADEX students confidence in their clinical skills:

  • Safety First: Proper isolation reduces risk of contamination or damage.

  • Precision: Accurate burr selection and prep technique ensures correct cavity dimensions.

  • Efficiency: Step-by-step methodology saves time and improves exam performance.

Key Takeaways

1. Correct Isolation: Clamp pre-molars, isolate front teeth, and consider quadrant isolation.

2. Precise Burr Usage: 330 burr is ideal for Class III preps and accurate measurements.

3. Matrix Management: Align matrices with marginal ridge height for proper contour.

4. Understand Prep Anatomy: Know the walls and depth requirements for Class II & III cavities.

5. Confidence in Execution: Following these steps ensures exam success and reduces errors.

Need More Help with Your ADEX Exam Preparation?

Sometimes, a personalized touch is the best way to advance your skills.

If you have questions about rubber dam placement, Class II or Class III prep, or any other ADEX exam techniques, schedule a call with us.

We’re here to guide you every step of the way!

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