EFFICIENCY OF WAX REMOVAL

Abstract

Objectives: To Determine the efficiency of wax removal from denture baseresin using hot water at a range of temperatures with added detergentand to Study the effectsof mechanically modified surfaces of denture base resin on the efficiency of dewaxing usingthe above techniques. Settings: Eastman Dental Institute University Of London UK. Period:Jan 2007 to June 2007. Material and Methods: In this study cast acrylic rods 13 mm longand 6 mm in diameter were used. Three different surfaces were prepared for each rod,described as Polished, Abraded & Grooved. Nine experimental groups, each consisting of tenspecimens were mechanically modified were contaminated with modeling wax, and then thosein each group were subjected to agitation in hot water with detergent at different range oftemperatures. The surfaces were then examined for traces of wax using Raman spectroscopy.Results: The spectrum for each specimen demonstrated peaks at different wavelengths andvarying intensities, the spectra demonstrated traces of wax on abraded surfaces showedleast wax when dewaxed at 100°C as compared abraded surfaces dewaxed at 65°C and 85°C temperatures respectively. Conclusion: The rough surfaces (abraded or grooved) showedmore wax retention as compared to polished surfaces. These surfaces are usually prepared bythe dental technician in a belief that modifying the ridge-lap area of the teeth will increase thebond strength between the teeth and the denture base. Residual wax can still remain on thetooth surface even after dewaxing it at 100˚C with detergent added to the water.