A Comparison of implant impression precision: Different materials and techniques

BACKGROUND: Precision of implant impressions is a prerequisite for long-term success of implant supported prostheses. Impression materials and impression techniques are two important factors that impression precision relies on. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A model of edentulous maxilla containing four implants inserted by All-on-4 guide was constructed. Seventy two impressions using polyether (PE), polyvinyl siloxane (PVS), and vinyl siloxanether (VSE) materials with direct and indirect techniques were made (n=12). Coordinates of implants in casts were measured using coordinate measuring machine (CMM). Data were analyzed with ANOVA; t-test and Tukey test were used for post hoc. RESULTS: With two-way ANOVA, mean values of linear displacements of implants were significantly different among materials and techniques. One-way ANOVA and Tukey showed significant difference between PE and VSE (P=0.019), PE and PVS (P=0.002) in direct technique, and between PVS and PE (P<0.001), PVS and VSE (P<0.001) in indirect technique. One-way ANOVA and t-test showed significant difference between the two techniques in PVS groups (P<0.001) and in PE groups (P=0.02). Two-way ANOVA showed mean values of rotational displacement of implants were significantly different among materials. One-way ANOVA and Tukey test showed significant difference between PVS and PE (P=0.001) and between PVS and VSE (P=0.012) in indirect groups. CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of the results, when deciding on the material to make an impression of implants, PE is recommended for direct technique while PE and VSE are recommended for indirect technique. Recommended technique for VSE is either direct or indirect; and for PE and PVS is direct. Key words:Polyvinyl siloxane, polyether, vinyl siloxanether, direct technique, indirect technique, All-on-4, coordinate measuring machine.