Comparative Evaluation of Changes in Linear Dimensional Stability and Surface Details of Elastomeric Impression Materials following Immersion in Disinfectant Solutions

Abstract

Abstract

 Background: Linear dimensional stability (LDS) and Surface detail reproduction (SDR) of elastomeric impression material play a crucial role in fixed prosthodontics.

Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in linear dimensional stability and surface details of elastomeric impression materials (Poly Vinyl Siloxane and Polyether) following immersion in disinfectant solutions (glutaraldehyde (Cidex) 2.45%, sodium hypochlorite (Hypo) 5.25% and Chitosan 1%).

Materials and Methods: A stainless steel mold was made to fabricate the study specimens for non-aqueous PVS and PE elastic dental impression materials. Single mix impression techniques with light-body and putty consistency of two materials were used to prepare the test specimens. The specimens were immersed in glutaraldehyde (Cidex) 2.45%, sodium hypochlorite (Hypo) 5.25% and Chitosan 1% disinfection for 15 min (T1) and 6 h (T2) and 12 h (T3) immersion after which dimensional stability and surface detail reproduction were recorded using digital Vernier caliper and stereomicroscope.

Statistical Analysis: The data were analyzed using the RM ANOVA, unpaired t‑test.

Results: Dimensional stability at the T1 time interval showed a significant difference for control and glutaraldehyde (Cidex) 2.45%, sodium hypochlorite (Hypo) 5.25% and Chitosan 1% groups (P < 0.001). Similar trends were observed at T2 (6 hours) and T3 (12 hours), with PVS consistently outperforming Polyether. At T2 and at T3, the p value is less than 0.001 (p<0.001), highlighting the robust advantage of PVS in maintaining dimensional stability over time in the presence of the disinfectant. SDR of the two materials when compared with in three disinfectant solutions that there is no significant difference observed in glutaraldehyde (Cidex) 2.45%, sodium hypochlorite (Hypo) 5.25% but in contrast Chitosan 1% group showed significant difference (P = 0.009).

Conclusion: Choice of disinfectant did not significantly affect the dimensional stability of PVS and Polyether in most cases, but Chitosan 1% demonstrated a significant impact, resulting in higher dimensional stability for polyether compared to PVS.

Keywords: Dimensional Stability, Surface Details, Elastomeric Impression Materials, Disinfectant Solutions, Glutaraldehyde, Sodium Hypochlorite