How to Handle Dental Impression Putty Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Read Instructions Carefully

The impression kit comes with a booklet that has all the instructions on how to use it. Take the booklet out of the kit and read it carefully to understand the basics of using the impression kit.

Step 2: Ensure Proper Hygiene

Proper hygiene is an important factor when it comes to your dental treatment. It is important to brush and floss your teeth before taking dental impressions so that no food particles remain stuck in your smile.

Furthermore, before you begin your dental treatment, make sure your hands are properly cleaned. Take out the gloves and wear them to take the next step.

Step 3: Mix The Putties

Once you are ready, take out the impression putties from the kit. It comes with two putties, one is the catalyst and the other is the base. Mix them well until they are in a uniform color, with no white streaks. The average time for mixing the putties is 30 to 45 seconds. Be mindful of the time, before they get hardened. After mixing them properly, use your palm and roll the putty in the shape of a sausage.

Step 4: Figure Out The Correct Tray

The impression kit comes with trays for the upper and lower arch. You need to figure out which is the right one. The upper arch has the palate guard whereas the lower arch comes without it. This helps you identify the suitable tray for your impressions.

Step 5: Place The Putty on Tray

Load sausage-shaped putty in the impression tray and adjust it with the help of your fingers. Make sure it is placed properly so that it takes the impressions of the molars as well.

Step 6: Put The Tray in Mouth

Once the tray is ready, place it in the mouth. Make sure it is placed in the center of your mouth. Slightly bite on the putty so that you get your teeth impressions. Make sure the tray covers the complete arch and gets imprints of your molars as well.

Step 7: Remove The Tray

Hold the tray for a few minutes and then remove it gently by simply pushing it downwards (upwards in the case of the lower arch). Let the impression set for a while before you move to the next step.

Step 8: Repeat The Process

Repeat this step-by-step procedure for the other arch as well. A good impression has a clear image of each tooth and the gumline.

Step 9: Send The Impressions Back

Take out the impressions from the tray and let them set for a while. Mail your impressions back to us for the customization of your clear aligners.

Avoid Repositioning

A perfect dental impression is clear and has the perfect imprint on your teeth. For this sake, once you have placed the tray in your mouth, do not reposition it. If you do so, your imprints will be unclear and you will have to repeat the entire process.

Remove the Tray Gently

When you are removing the tray from your mouth, do not force it to come out. Be gentle and put slight pressure while you are removing it.

Be Aware of the Time

Keep a timer with you to keep notice of the time for each step. As impression putty gets hard after a few seconds, you need to be quick while mixing it, placing it in your mouth, and letting it set.