Linear setting expansion of different gypsum products

Abstract

Stone casts are used in dentistry to allow the confection of indirect restorations. Thus, gypsum dimensional stability is fundamental in order to achieve a precise fit between dental structure and restorative material. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the hygroscopic linear expansion of commercially available gypsum products. Material and methods: Fifteen dental stones were analyzed (4 type II, 5 type III, 4 type IV and 2 type V), with n = 5. One hundred grams of each gypsum product were mixed following the respective manufacturers’ recommendations for powder/water ratio and poured into a V-shape mold, connected to an expansion-measuring device. The hygroscopic expansion was evaluated during 120 min and the collected data was converted into percentage and compared to initial dimensions of the specimen. Results: All type II and V dental stones showed expansion values compatible to the ADA and ISO recommendations. Considering type III stones, only Rutenium 3 was compatible with the recommendations. For type IV, only Durone IV showed expansion values higher than that recommended by ADA, but lower than that of ISO recommendations. Conclusion: The hygroscopic linear expansion of gypsum products should be periodically controlled in order to ensure their precision and reliability to dental practice.