Effect of Varying Layers of Two Die Spacers on Precementation Space of Full Coverage Restorations

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of varying layers of two commercially available die spacers on pre-cementation space of full coverage restorations in vitro and in vivo. Seven dies were prepared for each of 15 subjects. On three dies 1, 2, 3 layers of Pico-fit and on other three dies 1, 2, 3 layers of Yeti die spacers applied, wax pattern fabricated, invested and cast. Metal copings seated in vitro on die without die spacer and on prepared tooth of respective subject with fit-checker. Thickness of fit checker was measured using micrometer at mid-axial, mid-occlusal and near finish line locations that provided pre-cementation space. Result of ANOVA tests suggested significant difference among groups with varying layers. There was no significant difference between pre-cementation space achieved with Pico-fit and Yeti die spacers. The r values suggested positive correlation between the respective pair of in vivo and in vitro groups. (1) There was significant difference between pre-cementation space at mid-axial and mid-occlusal sites achieved with 1, 2 and 3 layers of die spacers except between 1 and 2 layers and 1 and 3 layers at mid-occlusal site. (2) Pre-cementation space achieved with Pico-fit and Yeti die spacers did not differ significantly for same location, layers and in vitro and in vivo. (3) Pre-cementation space achieved in vitro was analogous to pre-cementation space achieved in vivo for respective location, layers and die spacer.