Accuracy and dimensional stability of four interocclusal recording materials

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Accurate jaw relations registration is crucial for prosthodontic treatment success.
• Traditional materials may exhibit dimensional instability, compromising registration accuracy over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy and stability of four jaw relations registration materials over a one-week period.
• To compare the performance of zinc oxide-eugenol paste, eugenol-free zinc oxide paste, silicone, and polyether.

Main Methods:

• A controlled laboratory study was conducted to assess material accuracy.
• Dimensional stability was measured at intervals over seven days using die scribes and sample measurements.

Main Results:

• Eugenol-free zinc oxide paste showed no statistically significant difference between die scribes and samples.
• Polyether, silicone, and zinc oxide-eugenol paste exhibited statistically significant differences.
• Zinc oxide-eugenol paste displayed the greatest dimensional instability, while polyether showed the least among the less accurate materials.

Conclusions:

• Eugenol-free zinc oxide paste is a highly accurate and stable material for jaw relations registration.
• The saponification reaction in eugenol-free zinc oxide paste contributes to its dimensional stability.
• Clinicians should consider the dimensional stability of registration materials to ensure accurate prosthodontic outcomes.