An in vitro study to evaluate the effect of storage time and application of subsequent layers on the variation in thickness of three commercially available die spacers.

ABSTRACT

Aims: The application of a paint-on die spacer onto the dies prior to the fabrication of cast crowns is an acceptable procedure to improve the fit of the restoration. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the variation in thickness of different brands of die spacer based on the effect of storage time and application of additional layers. Materials and Methods: Dies were duplicated from a master model of ivorine teeth, with a full ceramic preparation. Dies obtained were then painted with one, two, and three coats of each brand of die-spacers separately. These dies were embedded in die stone and sectioned bucco-lingually. The same procedure was done after three and six months. The thickness of the paint on die spacer was measured at five points on the die using an optical microscope, and the data were statistically analyzed. Results and Conclusion: There was a definite variation in the thickness of the die spacer with all the three brands and at various points on the die. Two coat thicknesses were found to be in the range of tolerance of 20-40 microns. Thickness at occlusal groove was noted to be the maximum with least at occlusoaxial line angles. Thickness also showed a very significant increase when bottles were stored for a period of three to six months and then applied.