Research Article

Copyright © 2013 Arvind Moldi et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Objective. Anecdotal evidence suggests that impression materials and techniques used in general dental practice for fixed partial dentures vary from those taught in dental schools. The aim of this survey was to integrate impression techniques evolved all over the years for fixed partial dentures and to know the techniques andmaterials which are used in the present day by the practitioners. Materials and Methods. A total of 1000 questionnaires were sent to various practitioners in India, out of which 807 questionnaires were filled. Results.The results showed that 84.8 % of prosthodontists (65.56%, urban areas) use elastomeric impressionmaterials as well as irreversible hydrocolloids and 15.2 % use irreversible hydrocolloid only. Amongst other practitioners, 55.46 % use irreversible hydrocolloid (45%, rural and semiurban areas) and 44.54%use elastomeric impressionmaterials. Elastomeric impression technique practiced most commonly is putty reline with/without spacer (77.2%); other techniques are multiple-mix and monophase techniques.Conclusion.The ideal materials, technique, and armamentarium are required for the long-term success of the treatmen