EVALUATION OF MARGINAL FIT OF INLAYS FABRICATED BY CONVENTIONAL AND DIGITAL IMPRESSION TECHNIQUES: A STEREOMICROSCOPIC STUDY.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the marginal fit of inlays fabricated using conventional and digital impression techniques through stereomicroscopic analysis. Methods: A total of 50 inlays were fabricated, with 25 in each group: conventional impression and digital impression. Marginal fit was assessed using a stereomicroscope at 20x magnification. Mean marginal gap measurements were recorded at predetermined locations (mesial, distal, buccal, and lingual), and statistical analysis was performed to compare the marginal fit between the two groups. Results: The digital impression group exhibited significantly smaller mean marginal gap measurements compared to the conventional impression group at all measured locations (p < 0.001). The mean marginal gap measurements ranged from 52.6 to 58.9 microns in the digital impression group and from 64.2 to 72.1 microns in the conventional impression group. Conclusion: In conclusion, digital impression techniques demonstrated superior marginal fit accuracy compared to conventional impression methods in the fabrication of inlays. These findings highlight the potential of digital technologies to enhance the precision and accuracy of dental restorations, ultimately improving clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]