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Moisture effect on polyether and polyvinylsiloxane dimensional accuracy and detail reproduction
Mary P Walker1, Cynthia S Petrie, Reem Haj-Ali
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, MO 64108, USA. walkermp@umkc.edu
Summary
Polyether (PE) impression materials demonstrated superior surface detail reproduction compared to polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) materials, especially under moist conditions. Dimensional accuracy was not significantly affected by moisture for either PE or PVS materials.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Impression Techniques
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Accurate dental impressions are crucial for prosthodontic restorations.
- Hydrophilic polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) and polyether (PE) materials are commonly used.
- Environmental factors like moisture can influence impression material performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the dimensional accuracy and surface detail reproduction of PVS and PE impression materials.
- To evaluate the impact of dry versus moist conditions on these properties.
Main Methods:
- Four impression materials (two PVS, two PE) were tested.
- Impressions were made on stainless steel dies under dry and moist conditions.
- Dimensional accuracy was measured using a microscope; surface detail was assessed based on ADA criteria.
Main Results:
- Moisture did not significantly affect the dimensional accuracy of any material tested.
- Significant differences in dimensional accuracy were observed between material types.
- Surface detail reproduction was significantly impacted by moisture for PVS materials, but not for PE materials.
Conclusions:
- Polyether materials exhibit superior surface detail reproduction in moist conditions compared to hydrophilic PVS.
- Both PE and PVS materials maintain dimensional accuracy under moist conditions.
- PE materials are recommended for situations where moisture control is challenging.
