IMPRESSION

Introduction:

Impression is the process of making a negative copy of the teeth and surrounding tissues. This is usually done in order to make dental prosthetics (such as dentures, crowns, or bridges), but it can also be used for other purposes such as orthodontics. The most common material used for impressions is plaster, but other materials such as silicone and polyurethane can also be used.

The first step in making an impression is to prepare the mouth by cleaning it and applying a lubricant to the teeth and gums. Next, the impression material is placed in the mouth and allowed to harden. Once it has hardened, the impressions are removed and sent to a dental laboratory where they will be used to create the prosthetic or other desired dental device.

Types of Dental Impression:

There are two main types of dental impression materials: plaster and silicone.

• Plaster is the most common type of material used for impressions, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with.
• Silicone is more expensive but provides a more accurate impression. Other materials, such as polyurethane, can also be used but are less common.
• The type of impression material that is used will depend on the purpose of the impression and the preference of the dentist or dental technician.
• Plaster is often used for initial impressions, while silicone is typically used for final impressions. Some dentists may use one type of material for both initial and final impressions, while others may use different materials for each.

How is an Impression made?

An impression is typically made by having the patient bite down on a soft, pliable material that hardens over time. The material is then removed from the mouth and used to create the desired dental device.

There are two main methods of making impressions: direct and indirect. 

• Direct Impressions are made by having the patient bite into the material directly, while indirect impressions are made by first taking an impression of the mouth and then using that to create a model of the teeth. 
• Indirect Impressions are generally more accurate than direct impressions and are often used for final impressions.

What are the benefits of Dental Impressions?

• Dental impressions are an important part of many dental procedures and can provide a number of benefits. They can be used to create accurate models of the teeth, which can be used for a variety of purposes such as orthodontics, prosthetics, or research.
• Additionally, impressions can be used to make custom-fitted dental devices such as mouthguards or nightguards.
• Dental impressions are also relatively quick and easy to take, and can be done in a single office visit. They are generally well tolerated by patients and cause minimal discomfort.

What are the risks of Dental Impressions?

There are few risks associated with dental impressions. The impression material may cause some gagging or discomfort, but this is typically short-lived. Some patients may also experience an allergic reaction to the impression material, but this is rare.

Conclusion:

Overall, dental impressions are safe and have few risks. They are an important part of many dental procedures and can provide numerous benefits. If you have any concerns about dental impressions, be sure to discuss them with your dentist beforehand.