What are mylar strips primarily used for in dentistry?

Mylar strips are primarily used in dentistry to achieve mesial and distal contacts while placing restorative materials. These thin, flexible strips are particularly useful in the placement of composite resins in class II restorations, where maintaining proper contour and contact points with adjacent teeth is essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes. By using mylar strips, dental professionals can create a temporary wall that allows for accurate shaping of the restorative material, ensuring that the final restoration fits well and maintains proper alignment with the surrounding teeth.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary function of mylar strips in dental procedures. For instance, mylar strips are not specifically designed to modify the shape of a tooth directly, nor are they used for securing dental instruments or cleaning equipment. Their primary focus is on facilitating the restorative process by ensuring proper contacts, which is vital in achieving successful restorative outcomes.