Abstract
The purpose of this study is to determine and compare the mechanical and flow properties of polyvinylsiloxane impression pastes. Twelve polyvinylsiloxane impression materials were used. As mechanical properties, tensile strength and tear resistance were measured. Impression materials are subjected to tensile stresses when they are removed from the oral cavity and from stone models and tear resistance is the ability of the material to resist tearing under a tensile stress. Flow is dependent on the ability of the material to resist shear forces. Flow tests were performed to determine the handling characteristics and was measured using a shark fin testing device. An impression material must be able to penetrate the narrow subgingival sulcus and tight interproximal areas. Therefore, it must be able to resist the shear forces as it is pushed between tooth and gingival walls. It is necessary to understand the properties of interocclusal recording materials and is considered that the results obtained in this study will provide guideline information for the manufacturing of impression materials and for selecting appropriate impression materials.