pindex system
A precision pin-and-hole method used in dental laboratories to create removable dies from a full-arch gypsum cast, allowing individual tooth preparation models to be seated and removed accurately.
Full Definition
The pindex system is a laboratory technique in which metal pins are cemented or drilled into the base of a poured stone cast, corresponding to pre-drilled holes, so that individual sections containing single prepared dies can be removed and replaced with repeatable accuracy. This system superseded older sectioning methods and is fundamental to crown-and-bridge workflows. Precise seating of the die back into the working cast is critical for evaluating interproximal contacts and marginal fit of restorations. Editors should capitalise 'Pindex' when referencing the original Coltene-Whaledent branded device, but may use lowercase generically.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise as 'Pindex' when referring to the brand; lowercase 'pindex system' for the generic technique. Not to be confused with the working cast itself.
In Context
- "After pouring the master impression, the technician used the pindex system to create individually removable dies for each prepared crown unit." — Crown and bridge laboratory procedure
- "The laboratory SOP requires pindex pin alignment to be verified with a parallelometer before the second pour." — Laboratory standard operating procedure