Accuracy of Selective Laser Melted Bar Retaining Mandibular Implant-Assisted Overdenture: An In Vitro Comparison of Different Impression Materials and Techniques

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of the marginal fit of 2 implant-supported overdenture bars fabricated with selective laser melting technology, using polyvinyl siloxane and vinyl siloxane ether impression materials and different impression techniques. Two implants with multi-unit abutments were inserted in a 3D-printed mandibular model and used as a reference model, then duplicated into a stone cast to fabricate custom trays for obtaining impressions with polyvinyl siloxane and vinyl siloxane ether impression materials, using both open and closed-tray techniques. This resulted in a total of 4 groups, each with 8 specimens. The impressions were poured and scanned, and 32 cobalt-chromium bars were fabricated using selective laser melting technology. Each bar was screwed onto one abutment of the reference model, and a standardized digital periapical radiograph of the opposite unscrewed side was taken; this process was repeated to the other abutment. The vertical misfit was measured at 3 predetermined positions on the unscrewed side, and 6 values per bar were recorded. The mean gap distance was measured, and the data were subjected to statistical analysis; the present study found that the open-tray technique with vinyl polyether siloxane impression material may offer improved accuracy for obtaining impressions for 2 implant-supported bars. The open-tray technique groups also showed better marginal fit than the closed-tray groups. However, further clinical research is required to confirm these findings.