Stability analysis of elastomeric impression materials after antimicrobial disinfection

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Infection Control in Dentistry

Background:

• Dental impression materials, like vinyl polysiloxanes (VPS), contact oral fluids (blood, saliva).
• Disinfection is crucial to prevent cross-contamination and ensure material integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of three disinfectants (5.25% sodium hypochlorite, ozone gas, UV radiation) on the dimensional stability and antibacterial activity of VPS impression materials.
• To compare these effects against a control group (diluted water).

Main Methods:

• Thirty VPS impression samples were created using a master die compliant with ADA Specification No. 19.
• Samples were divided into four groups: control, 5.25% NaOCl, ozone gas, and UV radiation.
• Dimensional stability was measured using a stereomicroscope and image analysis software.
• Antibacterial efficacy was assessed for each disinfectant.

Main Results:

• The control group showed the most significant dimensional changes.
• Ozone gas and 5.25% NaOCl resulted in the least dimensional changes.
• All tested disinfectants (ozone gas, UV radiation, NaOCl) demonstrated a reduction in bacterial load.
• Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups for dimensional stability.

Conclusions:

• VPS elastomeric impressions exhibit minimal dimensional changes when disinfected with 5.25% NaOCl, ozone gas, or UV radiation.
• 5.25% NaOCl is suitable for long-term storage of impressions due to minimal dimensional alterations.
• Disinfection protocols using these agents effectively reduce bacterial contamination on VPS impressions.