Custom impression trays: Part I--Mechanical properties.

Dimensional stability of custom impression trays is an important factor in determining the degree of accuracy achieved in forming a master cast. Such trays must remain stable over time and must not exhibit permanent deformation when a completed impression is removed from the oral cavity. Measurement of the mechanical properties allows comparison between various tray materials and is useful in interpreting data on stresses incurred during removal of the completed impression. In Part I of this three-part series, the various mechanical properties of five tray resins: one autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate, one light-polymerizing, and three brands of thermoplastic resins were recorded and compared. The thermoplastic resins studied in this investigation exhibited lower measured values for the strength and elastic modulus properties than the light-polymerizing resin and the autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate resin studied.