Survey of prosthodontic impression procedures for complete dentures in general dental practice in the United Kingdom

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Anecdotal evidence suggests impression techniques used in general dental practice may vary from those taught at dental schools. There is little published information on this topic.

PURPOSE: This study identifies the materials and methods used by general dental practitioners for recording impressions for the provision of replacement of complete dentures.

METHODS: A total of 905 questionnaires were sent to general dental practitioners in the Greater Manchester area to identify current clinical practices.

RESULTS: The results revealed that 88% of respondents use only irreversible hydrocolloid for primary impressions. If multiple responses are included, 99% of respondents mentioned irreversible hydrocolloids as an option for primary impressions. In response to the same question for secondary impressions, 94% of respondents mentioned irreversible hydrocolloids as an option. Other material mentioned as an option for secondary impressions included zinc oxide-eugenol (29%) and polyvinyl siloxane (13%). With regard to special trays, 75% of respondents routinely used laboratory constructed special trays to take definitive impressions. Questions on the requisite spacing, perforation, handle design of special trays, and on disinfection showed a diversity of opinion among practitioners.

CONCLUSIONS: Although this survey reflected a diverse range of clinical preferences, it is clear that irreversible hydrocolloid dominates the impression market for complete dentures. The use of special trays is normal practice for complete dentures in general dental practice in the United Kingdom.