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

Statement of problem. Anecdotal evidence suggests impression techniques use d 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 de ntal practitioners for recording impressions for the provision of replaceme nt of complete dentures. Methods. A total of 905 questionnaires were sent to general dental practiti oners 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 pr imary impressions. In response to the same question for secondary impressio ns, 94% of respondents mentioned irreversible hydrocolloids as an option. O ther material mentioned as an option for secondary impressions included zin c oxide-eugenol (29%) and polyvinyl siloxane (13%). With regard to special trays, 75% of respondents routinely used laboratory constructed special tra ys to take definitive impressions. Questions on the requisite spacing, perf oration, handle design of special trays, and on disinfection showed a diver sity of opinion among practitioners. Conclusions. Although this survey reflected a diverse range of clinical pre ferences, it is clear that irreversible hydrocolloid dominates the impressi on market for complete dentures. The use of special trays is normal practic e for complete dentures in general dental practice in the United Kingdom.