A prospective clinical evaluation of electronically mixed polyvinyl siloxane impression materials: results from the prosthetic "SuperStudy"--a consumer evaluation.

Polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impression materials incorporating a polyether carbosilane wetting agent and mixed with an electronic mixing system (Pentamix) were clinically compared with traditionally delivered (i.e., automixed) PVS impression materials during routine use by 1,505 general and specialized dental practitioners evaluating more than 30,000 impressions. Each study participant selected 20 patients and used standard tooth-preparation procedures appropriate to the therapy required, supplied specific data on each case, and ultimately evaluated the marginal detail, fit, and success of the final restorations. The areas requiring evaluation upon completion of the final restorations were ranked between "excellent," "good," "poor," and "remake needed," among users of the PVS materials with the electronic mixing system. About 80% of the respondents rated the Pentamix system as easier to mix and deliver than the gun or hand-mixed systems and two thirds said it was faster to mix. The system also received high scores for hygienic delivery, ease of mixing, and clean-up.