Comparative evaluation of the accuracy and efficiency of silicone-based bite-registration record using handheld conventional versus recently introduced powered mixing gun – An in vitro study

Purpose: An accurate and functional interocclusal record is very important in restorative dentistry, and any inaccuracies may lead to extensive intraoral adjustments, which can compromise the esthetics and/or mechanical strength of the restorations. The current literature lacks a direct comparison of dimensional accuracy and time efficiency between conventional and powered mixing techniques. The present study compared the accuracy and efficiency of recently introduced powered mixing gun with the conventional handheld gun that was used to mix two silicone-based bite-registration materials. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 bite registrations were recorded on maxillary and mandibular typodont models mounted on a semi-adjustable articulator. Of these, 50 bite registrations were recorded using a handheld conventional mixing gun technique and the other 50 using a handheld powered mixing gun technique. Both types of bite registrations were performed using fast and superfast set bite-registration materials. The dimensional accuracy and time efficiency of both techniques were analyzed and compared. Results: The accuracy and time efficiency of the handheld powered gun mixing technique were significant (P < 0.05) than the conventional mixing technique for fast set bite registration material in vertical distances A1A2 (P = 0.01), B1B2 (P = 0.015), and C1C2 (P = 0.001). However, for horizontal distances AB (P = 0.008) and AC (P = 0.001), accuracy was more significant (P < 0.05) for the superfast set bite registration material compared to the fast set material using the powered mixer. Conclusion: The powered mixing gun technique was more accurate and efficient than the conventional mixing gun technique for recording the bite registration using fast and superfast set materials.