Which material has greater thermal expansion than polysulfide?

The correct answer is polyether, which exhibits greater thermal expansion compared to polysulfide. This property is particularly important in dentistry, specifically in impression materials, because thermal expansion can affect the accuracy of the final dental restoration or prosthetic.

Polyether materials are known for their high dimensional stability and can handle temperature changes better than polysulfide. When the temperature fluctuates, polyether tends to expand more than polysulfide, which can influence how well it captures detail and maintains its shape during the impression process. Understanding this relationship between thermal expansion and material choice is crucial for achieving the best results in prosthodontics.

The other materials listed do not demonstrate the same level of thermal expansion as polyether. For example, polysulfide polymer is designed to have controlled expansion properties, while condensation silicone has a different chemical structure that allows for less expansion compared to polyether. Reversible hydrocolloid also has its own unique thermal characteristics that don't surpass those of polysulfide. These distinctions help practitioners choose the most suitable material based on the clinical scenario and desired outcomes.