Dimensional Stability and Compressive Resistance of Three Interocclusal Record Materials: A Comparative In Vitro Study.

Background: Accurate interocclusal records are crucial for a successful prosthetic treatment as they ensure the correct replication of a patient's jaw movements and relationships. The dimensional stability and compressive resistance of interocclusal record materials are essential factors influencing the quality of the final prosthesis. This study aims to evaluate and compare the dimensional stability and compressive resistance of three commonly used interocclusal recording materials: Ramitec (polyether; 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN), Bona-Bite (polyvinyl siloxane; DMP Dental, Markopoulo, Greece), and O-Bite (polyvinyl siloxane; DMG Dental, Hamburg, Germany).

Methodology: An in vitro study was conducted using 108 samples prepared from three interocclusal record materials: Ramitec, Bona-Bite, and O-Bite, with each material tested at three different thicknesses (2, 4, and 6mm). A master stainless steel die was used to create the samples. The compressive resistance of each material was measured by applying a static load of 25N using a universal testing machine for one minute. Linear dimensional stability was assessed by comparing the diameters of the samples before and after compression using a vernier caliper.

Results: Bona-Bite exhibited the highest compressive resistance with mean values of 0.315±0.066 (6mm), 0.319±0.065 (4mm), and 0.306±0.065 (2mm). It also showed the least linear dimensional change, with mean values of 0.073±0.040 (6mm), 0.105±0.057 (4mm), and 0.080±0.036 (2mm). In comparison, Ramitec and O-Bite demonstrated lower compressive resistance and higher dimensional changes. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between Bona-Bite and the other materials in both compressive resistance and dimensional stability.

Conclusion: Bona-Bite (polyvinyl siloxane) outperformed Ramitec (polyether) and O-Bite (polyvinyl siloxane) in terms of compressive resistance and dimensional stability. Therefore, Bona-Bite is recommended for use in interocclusal recording to achieve more accurate and reliable prosthetic outcomes.