a flexible frame supports and at least partially surrounds a thin polymer sheet . the frame and polymer sheet is positioned between a tooth being filled and an adjacent tooth so as to extend partly or completely around the buccal and lingual sides of the tooth being filled . the frame may be severable to facilitate removal of the frame and apparatus following the completion of a filling . a mechanism may be included for tightening the gingival border of the frame to more closely follow the natural tooth contour . a mechanism may also be included for tightening the occlusal border of the frame with such tightening mechanisms being independently operated . the frame may be secured to a tooth being treated such as utilizing adhesive tabs .