Enhanced prosthetics using the gingival mask.

Abstract

The removal and trimming of working model dies destroys important soft tissue information. Features such as the gingival sulcus, interdental papilla, and ridge form are often destroyed. The loss of these features makes the fabrication of correct restoration contours difficult. Using the gingival mask will restore vital soft tissue as well as hard tissue information. This paper discusses the gingival mask, its advantages and disadvantages, and describes the direct and indirect methods of fabrication. Whatever method is employed, the gingival mask will prove to be a valuable adjunct for improving the quality and esthetic values of the fixed prosthesis.