Comparative in vitro evaluation of two provisional restorative materials

Statement of problem. Provisional crowns traditionally have been associated with problems such as poor occlusion, contour, fit, and finish. Fabricatio n procedures should be uncomplicated and predictable within a realistic tim e frame. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to compare the quality of provisiona l restorations fabricated by dental students from 2 different materials (bi s-acryl composite resin and PMMA) and identify the advantages and disadvant ages associated with each material. Material and methods. This study evaluated the occlusion, contour, marginal adaptation, and finish of 222 provisional crowns fabricated by 2 groups (A and B) of dental students. One bis-acryl composite resin material (Integri ty) and 2 PMMA resins (C&B Resin and Snap) were evaluated. Results. For group A, Integrity was statistically superior (P<.05) to C&B R esin in all 4 categories for anterior provisional crowns. For posterior pro visional crowns, Integrity proved superior in the categories of contour and marginal adaptation, but no significant differences were established for o cclusion and finish. For group B, Integrity was statistically superior to S nap in the categories of occlusion, contour, and marginal adaptation, where as there was no statistical difference in finish. When all 4 categories wer e analyzed, Integrity was found to be statistically superior. Conclusion. Bis-acryl composite resin (Integrity) was significantly superio r to PMMA (C&B Resin and Snap) as a provisional restorative material.