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Complete Denture Impression Technique

A complete denture impression is used to create a mold of the patient's teeth before extraction. A complete impression usually involves both the upper and lower teeth. This provides the dentists with a three-dimensional model of the patient's teeth and will help with sizing and creation of artificial teeth after extraction. Dentists use a gooey impression material that hardens while in the patient's mouth. The type of impression material varies from dentist to dentist. Dental trays also vary. Regardless of the impression materials or trays used, the process of taking the dental impression remains the same.

Things You'll Need

  • Dental tray
  • Impression material
  • Adhesive, optional
  • Wax
  • Antibacterial spray
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Instructions

  1. Taking a Complete Dental Impression

    • 1

      Select an appropriately sized dental tray for the upper teeth. The tray should fit snugly in the patient's mouth without causing strain on the jaws or teeth.

    • 2

      Mix the impression material according to the instructions on the package. Prepare a timer for the required set time as soon as you begin mixing. The set time includes the time it takes to mix the material and pour the tray, as well as the time in the patient's mouth. The impression begins to set as soon as it is mixed.

    • 3

      Apply adhesive to the inside of the dental tray. If the tray is perforated, the impression material will fill the holes and bind securely to the tray without adhesive.

    • 4

      Apply a small amount of wax to the outer edges of the dental tray. This will protect the patients mouth, as well as provide a tighter seal and a better impression.

    • 5

      Fill the dental tray with impression material.

    • 6

      Wipe a small amount of impression material on the occlusal surfaces of the upper teeth to prevent bubbling in the impression.

    • 7

      Use a dental mirror to gently pull the patient's cheek aside and insert the dental tray. The dental mirror is smaller than your fingers and allows you more maneuverability and the patient less discomfort.

    • 8

      Press the dental tray firmly onto the teeth, securing the tray tightly against the front and back teeth to get an accurate impression.

    • 9

      Allow the impression material to set. Remember to remain relaxed. Call out the time remaining to let your patient know exactly where he or she is in the process.

    • 10

      Remove the tray from the patient's mouth when the timer you set in Step 2 goes off. Wiggle the tray slightly to loosen the dental tray from the teeth, but do not wrench as this will cause defects in the mold.

    • 11

      Inspect the mold to determine that there are no bubbles and that all occlusal surfaces have been accurately represented.

    • 12

      Disinfect the mold using an antibacterial spray and rinse.

    • 13

      Wrap the mold in a wet paper towel and place in a plastic bag with the patient's name on it.

    • 14

      Repeat Steps 1 through 13 for the lower teeth.

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