Different Types of Finish Lines, Gingival Retraction Methods and Impression Techniques Used During Single Crown Preparation

Abstract

Tooth preparation is part of the daily routine for dentists. Each step involved in the tooth preparation is important. This study focuses on three parameters, finish lines, gingival retraction methods and impression technique. Gingival retraction and impression technique go hand in hand, as retraction of the gingival sulcus is mandatory to expose the prepared finish line and record them accurately. This study aimed to determine various types of finish lines, gingival retraction methods and impression techniques incorporated during single crown preparation in Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals. Case records were collected from DIAS (Dental Information Archiving Software). This university setting study involved a sample size of 812 patients. Data was tabulated with parameters of name, age, sex, finish line, gingival retraction, no. of cords, type of impression. The gingival retraction method used was a mechanical gingival retraction method which comprised 794 teeth and 554 of the gingival retraction was done using "2 cords (000+1)". 2 stage putty wash technique was commonly employed during impression taking in tooth preparation of 746 teeth. Chi-square test done for association between tooth no and finish lines, gingival retraction methods, no. of cords used and impression technique did not show any statistical significance (p>0.05) while association of finish line with no. of cords and type of impression showed statistical significance (p<0.05).