Boxing the tongue region in mandibular irreversible hydrocolloid impressions

Abstract

Alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid) impression material is routinely used for making impressions for diagnostic casts. The resultant diagnostic cast should be neat and esthetically pleasing as it is used to educate the patient. However, it is difficult to box mandibular irreversible hydrocolloid impressions, especially in the tongue region (Fig. 1). Materials such as tissue paper and wet asbestos may result in a rough lingual region requiring excessive trimming. The following method will improve the appearance of the diagnostic cast. 1. Make a thick mix of irreversible hydrocolloid impression material and adapt it to the tongue region. Fig. 2. Irreversible hydrocolloid impression material adapted to tongue region.