Final answer:
Impression materials in dentistry are used to create molds of teeth and mouth tissues for dental restorations. Commonly used materials include alginate, polyether, and silicone.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impression materials in the context of dentistry are materials used to create molds or impressions of teeth and mouth tissues. These molds are then used to fabricate dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. The most commonly used impression materials in dentistry include alginate, polyether, and silicone.
Alginate is a seaweed-based material that sets into a gel-like consistency when mixed with water. It is often used for preliminary impressions and study models.
Polyether is a hydrophilic material that captures fine details and provides accurate impressions. It is commonly used for crown and bridge impressions.
Silicone materials, specifically addition silicones, are known for their stability, accuracy, and ease of use. They are commonly used for a wide range of dental impressions, including crown and bridge, implant, and denture impressions.