Final answer:
The Tofflemire retainer is used to secure the matrix band around the tooth during dental restorative procedures. It holds the band in place to contain restorative material as the tooth's shape is recreated. Other options like dental dams, explorers, and amalgam carriers serve different purposes in dental treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The device that secures the matrix band around the tooth is the Tofflemire retainer. It is a mechanical device used during dental procedures to hold a matrix band in place around a tooth which is being restored, usually with a dental filling such as an amalgam or composite. The matrix band acts as a temporary wall to contain the restorative material until it sets, allowing the dentist to recreate the natural shape of the tooth.
Other options like a Dental dam is used to isolate the tooth being worked on, an Explorer is a dental instrument used to examine teeth for decay, and an Amalgam carrier is employed to carry and dispense amalgam or other restorative material into the cavity preparation.