Re-Examining an Impression Material for Edentulous Impressions

By Jeffrey C. Hoos, DMD, FAGD
As appeared in Dentistry Today, April 1996

When the Perfectim System was developed, a technique for full-denture impressions was perfected. Using this system, I can obtain full-denture impressions that result in a precisely fitting prosthesis with negligible post insertion adjustments due to sore spots.

One of the notable features of the system is the unusual control afforded in influencing the flow of the impression material. Because it is static when placed on tissue or in a tray, the material only flows when pressure is applied. Thus, the usual dripping, sagging, slumping and gagging associated with traditional impression material is eliminated.

Clinical Case

A patient presented with an edentulous maxillary jaw (Fig. 1). A properly sized stock or custom tray is tried into position (Fig 2). Any areas of the tray are relieved where interference with tissue or muscle attachments is observed. After correction, the tray is painted with vinyl adhesive and allowed to dry for a minimum of five minutes.

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

A cartridge of Universal Blue Velvet in a dispensing gun is extruded directly onto the vestibular areas of the maxillary jaw. Patient-held cheek retractors are employed to aid this procedure (Fig. 3). A previously prepared tray is inserted into position and the patient should go through all facial and lip movements. When cured, a completed border molded tray is obtained that has been achieved in a totally passive environment (Fig. 4). The border molded tray is carefully filled with Flexi-Velvet and the tray is reinserted into position in the mouth. The flow of the Flexi-Velvet is controlled solely by the amount of pressure applied (Fig. 5).

Figure 3.

Figure 4.

Figure 5.

After removal, the impression should be dried and a small amount of Flexi-Velvet should be applied in the post dam area. The impression should be reinserted and allowed to cure. The denture base should fit with precision and require few (if any) insertion adjustments if the vertical dimension and centric occlusion are established correctly. Using the same technique, excellent fitting mandibular full dentures are achievable. However, the border molding procedure must be accomplished around the entire perimeter of the tray.

The success of this procedure is credited to two of the Perfectim materials, namely Universal Blue Velvet (75 durometer) and Flexi-Velvet (40 durometer).

For technical information, call (800) 818-7788, or to order call (800) 752-9720.

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