Some effects of disinfecting solutions on the properties of alginate impression material and dental stone.

The study investigated the effect of two disinfecting solutions on one brand of alginate impression material and dental stone. Control impressions were immersed in water for equivalent periods and the effect of storage of impressions after disinfection or control immersion in water was also investigated. There were no significant dimensional changes in impressions poured after one hour. All impressions stored for 16 hours before pouring showed significant dimensional changes. Mixing dental stone with one disinfectant caused a significant softening of the cast. It is strongly recommended that all impressions are thoroughly rinsed with water after disinfection to prevent incorporation of disinfectant in the cast.