A new method for making casts from irreversible hydrocolloid impressions.

This method of making casts from alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid) edentulous impressions is a departure from the usual procedures. It consists of recognizing the weaknesses of the materials being used and handling them to the best advantage to minimize deleterious effects. A proper dental stone mixed with an accelerator is painted over the entire anatomic surface of the impression. A base is added only after the first application of stone sets. This method protects against volume change of the irreversible hydrocolloid impression material and distortion of the unsupported portions of the impression.