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A laboratory study of dimensional changes for three elastomeric impression materials using custom and stock trays
J L Boulton1, J P Gage, P F Vincent
1Department of Conservative Dental Surgery, Guy's Hospital, London.
Australian Dental Journal
|December 1, 1996
Summary
The accuracy of dental impressions for fixed prosthodontics depends on the material and tray used. Custom trays with specific elastomeric materials offer better dimensional accuracy than stock trays, which yield unreliable results.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Prosthodontics
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Clinical success in fixed prosthodontics relies on precise dental impressions.
- Elastomeric impression materials and techniques significantly influence dimensional accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the dimensional accuracy of three elastomeric impression materials in custom and stock trays.
- To compare impression accuracy for individual abutment and interabutment dimensions.
Main Methods:
- Used an experimental stainless steel model with premolar and molar bridge abutment preparations.
- Assessed horizontal and vertical dimensions on die stone replicas against master models.
- Compared polysulphide, silicone, and polyether impression materials in custom and stock trays.
Main Results:
- Polysulphide exhibited the least accuracy for both vertical and horizontal individual abutment dimensions.
- No significant difference in interabutment horizontal dimensions was found between materials in custom trays.
- Stock trays resulted in unreliable measurements for all tested elastomeric materials.
Conclusions:
- Custom trays are superior to stock trays for achieving accurate elastomeric impressions in fixed prosthodontics.
- Material choice impacts accuracy, with polysulphide being less accurate for specific measurements.
- Accurate impressions are critical for predictable clinical outcomes in prosthodontic restorations.