Evaluation and comparison of the flow of five modeling waxes according to ADA specifications

When using improper recording materials during the fabrication of dentures, the whole process could be compromised in spite of the precision administered during the rest of the procedure. The aim of this study was to compare the flow of Pars Wax, Azardent, Crystal and Asia Wax with the Dental Modelling Wax Detry [Manufactured in Dentsply] according to standard indices of ADA, specification no. 24. All flow tests were conducted in accordance with the corresponding ADA specifications. Two samples of each wax [10 mm wide x 6mm high] were prepared. A force of 19.6N [2kg] was applied on each specimen at three different temperatures: 23, 37 and 45°C. The geometric changes were accurately measured with a micrometer and compared to those obtained prior to the tests. The ratios of the dimensions after force application to the initial dimensions were determined. Based on these ratios, wax flows were compared to standard indices. The amount of flow at 23°C and 45°C, obtained for all studied waxes was in accordance with the corresponding standard values, proposed by ADA. However, at 37°C the flow of none of the studied waxes was in the range of the ADA standards. Considering that the tested waxes demonstrated conflicting results at different temperatures when compared with the standard values, further investigation using different batch numbers is suggested