Comparative evaluation of border morphology produced by three different border molding materials

Aims and objectives: This study aims to compare the border morphology produced by border moulding using tissue conditioner with that obtained using Low Fusing Compound, Putty Addition Silicone and Pattern Resin. Methods: 30 patients with good maxillary foundations and with previous denture history were selected for the study. The labial flange of the upper denture was reduced to an average 2 mm from the limiting sulcus and loaded with tissue conditioner and functionally molded. Borders were molded using low fusing impression compound, putty addition silicon and pattern resin. Casts were poured, sectioned and measured for area of sulcus using stereomicroscope.Results: Mean height and width values were subjected to ANOVA statistic. Mean border values obtained with all the three border molding materials (putty silicone: 22.774 sqmm, low fusing impression compound: 20.5007sqmm and pattern resin: 14.1266 sqmm.) were significantly different compared to that of the control (tissue conditioner: 11.5380 sqmm) (p=0.000). However the means show that the border area recorded using pattern resin is closest in dimension to that obtained using tissue conditioner. Conclusion: All the tested border molding materials produced borders statistically significantly different from the control. Within the limitations of the study, it may be recommended that pattern resin may be used as a border molding material next to tissue conditioner. Keywords: Border morphology, Complete dentures, Stereomicroscope.