When should a dental assistant evaluate the contacts of a restoration?

Evaluating the contacts of a restoration immediately after placement is critical for ensuring the success of the dental procedure. This allows the dental assistant to check the occlusion and interproximal contacts while the materials are still fresh and before the patient leaves the office. Proper evaluation at this stage can help identify any adjustments needed to enhance patient comfort and the restoration's functionality.

The contacts serve an important role in how well the restoration fits within the dental arch and interacts with adjacent teeth. If the contacts are too tight, it can lead to discomfort or damage to adjacent teeth. If they are too loose, it can result in food impaction and decay. Hence, addressing any issues right after placement allows for immediate corrective action, leading to a better long-term outcome for the patient.

In contrast, checking contacts before the procedure begins wouldn’t provide any relevant information as the restoration hasn't been placed yet. Evaluating after the patient leaves does not allow for timely adjustments, which can compromise the restoration's effectiveness. Assessing contacts only once every six months would not be practical or proactive for patient care, as it could allow issues to persist for an extended period without resolution.