Impressions are malleable dental materials that capture the shape and position of teeth, gums, and bone. They are used to create accurate replicas of a person’s oral structures for the construction of crowns, bridges, dentures, or orthodontic appliances.
Fit is always a concern when it comes to these devices. A poor fit can cause discomfort or even lead to failure of the device. Therefore, taking accurate dental impressions is something every dental professional should know how to do. If you’re interested in improving your preciseness, here are some tips.
Prepare the Patient
Before you can take a dental impression, you need to prepare the patient. Be sure to explain the process and what they can expect during the procedure. Discuss any potential discomfort or possible gag reflex with the patient beforehand.
Have All Necessary Materials Ready
Make sure you have all your materials ready before beginning the impression. This includes your tray, impression material, mixing bowls, and spatulas. Having everything organized and within reach will make the process smoother and minimize potential errors.
Select the Correct Impression Material
You have the choice between different impression materials, including alginate, polyvinyl siloxane, or polyether. The most common option is alginate, which is easy to mix and has a short setting time. But you should consider the patient’s needs and any allergies they may have before selecting an impression material.
Use Proper Technique
Taking an accurate dental impression requires proper technique. This includes correctly loading the tray with the right amount of material, using a motion that minimizes air bubbles, and applying even pressure to the tray when placing it in the patient’s mouth.
Take Your Time
Rushing through the impression process can result in an inaccurate mold. Take your time and make sure the impression material is set before removing it from the patient’s mouth. This will give you a precise representation of their oral structures.
Utilize Technology
Advancements in technology have made it possible to take digital impressions instead of traditional physical ones. This can offer many benefits, such as increased accuracy and faster turnaround times. Consider investing in a digital scanner for more precise and efficient impression taking.
Double Check the Final Impression
Before sending the impression to the lab, double check it for any mistakes or imperfections. This is especially important if you’re taking impressions for certain devices. For example, partial dentures must fit precisely since they need to integrate with a patient’s remaining natural teeth without any gaps. A mistake in the impression can result in a poor fitting and aesthetically unappealing prosthesis.
Continue Learning and Improving
As with any skill, practice makes perfect when it comes to taking accurate dental impressions. Attend workshops or lectures on new techniques or materials and continue learning from experienced colleagues. You can also discuss cases with peers to gain insights and troubleshoot any challenges you may face.
The more accurate your impressions are, the better your patient’s outcomes will be. Use these tips for taking dental impressions to improve upon your current technique, so you can provide the highest level of care to your patients, and make sure they leave your office with a new and improved smile!