Digital evaluation of trueness and precision of modern impression materials in implant- retained mandibular overdentures

Introduction: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the dimensional accuracy, trueness, and precision of vinyl siloxane ether (VSXE) and polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) impression materials using different impression techniques. Material and methods: A three-dimensional (3D) printed mandibular model with implants and metal rods served as the reference model. Impressions were taken in custom trays, resulting in four groups: PVS-closed-tray, VSXE-closed-tray, PVS-open-tray, and VSXE-open-tray. The reference model and impressions were scanned and analyzed using 3D analysis software to assess the trueness and precision within each group. Results: There was significant difference in trueness between the groups, with PVS closed tray showing a higher deviation than VSXE-closed-tray and PVS-open-tray. VSXE-open-tray had the lowest deviation, which was statistically significant. In terms of precision, PVS-closed-tray showed the highest deviation, while no significant differences were found among the other groups. Conclusions: VSXE impression material with an open tray technique consistently demonstrated the highest levels of accuracy and precision. Conversely, PVS impression material with a closed tray technique yielded less favorable results. Clinical relevance: Better understanding of trueness and precision of new impression materials with new impression techniques will increase their clinical effectiveness.