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Purpose: This study evaluated the ability of five elastomeric impression materials to
penetrate the gingival sulcus beyond the preparation margin. Materials and Methods: A
model of brass and agar gel was made to simulate human sulci and clinical gingival
conditions. Two addition-curing silicones, one condensation-curing silicone, one polyether,
and one polysulfide were tested. Ninety impressions of the model were made, six
impressions with each material with differing sulcular widths. The centers of sulcular
extension of these impressions were found with a measuring microscope. Results: Two-way
ANOVA showed significant differences among impression materials, sulcular widths, and
their interactions. The penetration ability of polyether showed greater extension than the
other materials, regardless of sulcular width. Polysulfide penetrated less than the two
silicones with 0.2- and 0.1-mm sulcular widths but more with the narrow 0.05-mm sulcular
width. Conclusion: These results suggest that the viscoelastic behavior of elastomers
depends on the width of sulci. Moreover, the sulcus simulation model effectively
contributes to the investigation of their characteristics. Int J Prosthodont 2003;16:385–389.
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