Materials and criteria required for dental moulds

In dentistry, impression-taking involves replicating the anatomical features of the oral cavity using impression materials dispensed into custom or stock trays. Certain characteristics inherent to these materials affect the accuracy and dimensional stability of the impression; consequently, fundamental criteria-such as the handling and distribution of the impression material within the tray; full visualisation of the preparation walls, the area of gingival retraction and the cervical margin; the absence of defects such as bubbles and tears in the impression; and the absence of residues inside the impression- must always be considered before the final model is obtained. This book presents the main materials and techniques used in dentistry, as well as the criteria required to achieve high-quality final impressions, and an observational study conducted on impressions for fixed prostheses. The text also highlights the importance of adequate tooth preparation, careful gingival retraction, and the correct handling and distribution of impression material in the trays.