Comparative Analysis of Alginate Dimensional Stability with Varied Pouring Intervals

Alginate is a widely used dental impression material in clinical settings. Despite advances in impression materials and the growing popularity of digital impression techniques, alginate remains a staple due to its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. The dimensional stability of irreversible hydrocolloid alginate is influenced by various factors, including storage temperature and the elapsed time between taking the impression and pouring the cast.

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the dimensional stability of two alginate impression materials, Cavex CA37 and Zhermack Hydrogum 5, over four different time periods. Statistical analyses, including Student's t-test, three-way ANOVA, post hoc Tukey HSD tests, and ANCOVA, were used to determine the significance of differences between groups and the impact of pouring time on dimensional stability.

Post hoc analysis revealed significant differences in dimensional stability between the two alginates across different time periods. For Zhermack Hydrogum 5, a significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed between the 120-hour mark and the other three time periods. Cavex CA37 exhibited significant differences (P < 0.05) between immediate pouring (0 hours) and the subsequent three time periods.

The findings suggest that impressions made with Cavex CA37 should be poured immediately to ensure optimal dimensional stability. Conversely, Zhermack Hydrogum 5 maintains accurate dimensional stability when poured within 24 hours, making it a more flexible option in clinical practice.