As you know, alginate was long considered the impression material of choice, partly due to its cost-effectiveness. However, drawbacks include susceptibility to improper or inconsistent mixing, not being dimensionally stable, having to be shipped wrapped in a wet wrap or, conversely, needing to be poured immediately, and being susceptible to distortion during disinfection. In addition, alginate has a tendency to stick to prepared teeth and has a low tear-strength if it snags. Today’s alginate substitutes virtually eliminate those variables and save the dental team time, plus the inconsistencies that can occur during mixing—such as amount of powder and water temperature, mixing method, and time—as well as tray design considerations, and clean up. Here are 12 reasons alginate substitutes are more commonly used in today’s restorative procedures:
1. They reproduce smoother, highly accurate details.
2. They have high tear strength.
3. They provide reasonably long working and setting times.
4. They are biocompatible and flavorless (so they do not increase salivation).
5. They are hydrophilic as well as thixotropic.
6. They can be disinfected without impacting accuracy.
7. They can remain stable for weeks, so can be poured multiple times if necessary.
8. They provide more accurate opposing arch occlusal detail, which may result in fewer occlusal adjustments.
9. They do not have to be poured, separated, and trimmed by the dental team, saving time and further improving accuracy.
10. Many dental labs prefer working with them.
11. They don’t have to be kept moist while in transit to the dental lab.
12. They are ideal for fabricating temporary restorations, removable restorations, orthodontics, dental models, and appliances such as nightguards, orthodontic retainers, bleaching trays, and snoring appliances.
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