Influence of Technique and Pouring Time on Dimensional Stability of Polyvinyl Siloxane and Polyether Impressions

This study aimed to determine how impression technique and pouring time affect casts obtained using polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) and polyether (PE) impressions. A total of 480 impressions were taken using three techniques: single-step (SS), two-step (TS), and two-step with a spacer (TSS). Impressions were poured after 1 and 24 hours and 7 and 14 days. Significant differences (P < .01) were found between the TS technique and the SS and TSS methods as well as between PE and PVS (P < .01) in terms of the effects of pouring time. SS and TSS yielded similar dimensional results, while greater dimensional change was induced with TS. PE impressions had to be poured no later than 7 days after preparation to ensure dimensional stability. Int J Prosthodont 2012;25:353-356.