Volumetric Change as a Parameter for the Accuracy of Impression Materials

In this paper we studied the behavior of some impression materials such as alginate, condensation and addition silicones, considering the following parameters: the reproductive capacity of morphological details - dimensional stability - the ability to reproduce with accuracy the ratio between morphological elements. The essential conditions that an impression material should fulfill are plasticity, fidelity, flexibility, good mechanical strength, dimensional stability, suitable setting time and compatibility with materials from which the models are manufactured. The study results indicated that condensation silicones present the highest volumetric changes, their contraction being the result of the evaporation of volatile byproducts. The dimensional stability of fingerprint materials is one of the variables that contribute to the accuracy or inaccuracy of dental prostheses, other factors being represented by the changes occurring during the preparation of the fingerprint material as well as the fingerprinting techniques.