Volumetric evaluation and three-dimensional accuracy of different elastomeric impression materials

Although there is more information on the theoretical shrinkage of different elastomeric impression materials, there are insufficient number of 3-dimensional evaluations on volumetric differences and accuracy of definitive casts. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate volumetric changes and the accuracy of four different impression materials using a 3-dimensional computer-aided measurement method. All definitive casts are compared with the master model by using computer-aided measurements. The 3-dimensional accuracy determined by best-fit alignment method and volumetric changes were identified by volumetric measurements. Detected changes are represented in color-coded maps and cross sections. Condensation silicon was significantly differing from polyether, polyvinyl siloxane and vinyl siloxanether. Except polyvinyl siloxane, vinyl siloxanether presented significantly lowest volumetric difference value from condensation silicon and polyether.