Comparative evaluation of two techniques for assessing internal fit of fixed dental prostheses: A randomized controlled in-vitro study
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Objective To compare the internal fit of fixed dental prostheses using the cement replica technique and the sectioning after cementation technique assessed with an optical microscope under standardized conditions. Materials and Methods Thirty metal copings were produced on gypsum dies, which were created from impressions taken of a machined copper master abutment. Die spacer (Pico-Fit) was applied (axial and occlusal surfaces except apical 1 mm). Internal gap was first measured via cement replica technique. Subsequently, crowns were cemented with glass ionomer, sectioned, and internal gap measured under BX41 Olympus optical microscope at ×100 magnification at seven predefined sites. A paired t-tests assessed differences between the two measurement techniques utilized at (α = 0.05). Results The sectioning after cementation technique produced significantly larger internal gap measurements than the cement replica technique across all measurement sites (p < 0.05). Conclusion In this in vitro model, measurements obtained post-cementation and sectioning were more clinically representative and reliable. The internal gap values obtained from both assessment techniques were within the clinically acceptable range.
Source: Research Square
Authors: Khaled Jamal Alhakim, Joul Kassis, Eyad Swed
Institutions: Wadi International University, Damascus University
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7160495444