Comparative Evaluation of Distortion in Wax Patterns Fabricated Using Conventional and Electrical Heat Sources: An In Vitro Study

Introduction Tooth loss significantly impacts individuals' functional capabilities and quality of life. Fixed partial dentures have been a reliable treatment method for tooth replacement, with their fabrication often involving waxes. Waxes play a crucial role in creating a wax pattern in dental restoration; in particular, inlay waxes play a role in the shape, size, and contour of the restorations. However, these waxes have inherent disadvantages, including a high thermal expansion coefficient and propensity to warp or distort over time. This study aimed to compare wax patterns derived from two heat sources, an electric heat source and a conventional flame, to enhance their marginal accuracy and dimensional stability. Methods This study used an abutment resembling a prepared maxillary right central incisor designed via computer-aided design software and milled from zirconia. Inlay wax was melted using either an electrically heated spatula or a conventional flame, poured into a metal sleeve or a cuboidal mold, and allowed to cool to room temperature. The wax patterns were stored at room temperature for one hour and 24 hours. Subsequently, linear and volumetric measurements were taken to assess the shrinkage of the wax patterns. Results Patterns fabricated using the electric heat source showed less shrinkage at both time points for linear shrinkage and at one hour for volumetric shrinkage than those made using the conventional flame. However, by the 24th hour, patterns made with the electric heat source showed more volumetric shrinkage than those made with the conventional heat source. Significant shrinkage was observed between one hour and 24 hours for both heat sources, suggesting that wax patterns should be invested immediately after fabrication for maximum precision. Conclusions The results suggest that electric heating may be a viable alternative to conventional flame for minimizing discrepancies in wax patterns, particularly in the initial stages of wax pattern fabrication. However, prolonged use may lead to greater volumetric shrinkage with electric heating. These findings point to the potential of electric heating as an alternative to conventional flame in dental restorations, although further research is needed to validate and expand upon these findings.