Polyvinyl Siloxane
Also written as: PVS — Polyvinyl Siloxane
An addition-reaction silicone elastomeric impression material renowned for its dimensional stability, detail reproduction, and resistance to permanent deformation.
Full Definition
Polyvinyl siloxane (PVS), also termed addition-cured or vinyl polysiloxane, is the predominant elastomeric impression material in fixed prosthodontics and implant dentistry. It sets via an addition polymerisation reaction between vinyl-terminated siloxane polymers and hydride-terminated cross-linkers, producing no by-products and yielding minimal dimensional change. Editors should note that 'polyvinyl siloxane', 'addition silicone', and 'vinyl polysiloxane' (VPS) are used interchangeably in the literature; house style should select one and apply it consistently. PVS should not be confused with condensation-cured silicones, which release ethanol as a by-product and shrink more over time.
Usage
Usage note: Standardise terminology to one of: 'polyvinyl siloxane', 'addition silicone', or 'vinyl polysiloxane' per house or journal style. Always distinguish from condensation silicone to avoid confusion in methodology descriptions.
In Context
- "A heavy-body polyvinyl siloxane was used in the stock tray, while a light-body PVS was syringed into the sulcus to capture fine detail." — Prosthodontic case report
- "Polyvinyl siloxane impression materials exhibit superior dimensional stability compared to condensation silicones when poured after 24 hours." — Comparative study