Which impression material is preferred for high precision in prosthetic applications due to low elastic recovery?

The preferred impression material for high precision in prosthetic applications is polyether. This material is specifically designed to provide excellent accuracy and detail reproduction, which is critical in prosthetics where fit and functionality are paramount. One of the key characteristics of polyether is its low elastic recovery, meaning that it deforms less after being removed from the mouth. This property helps to maintain the dimensional stability of the impression, ensuring that the definitive models produced from these impressions are precise and reliable.

Polyether's hydrophilic nature allows it to capture finer details even in the presence of moisture, making it particularly useful in situations where saliva or blood may be present. This attribute complements its low elastic recovery, as the material remains stable and accurate despite handling and environmental factors.

Other materials, while useful in certain contexts, do not match polyether in terms of precision and dimensional stability for prosthetic applications. Alginate, for example, is often used for preliminary impressions due to its ease of use and lower cost, but it can suffer from greater elastic recovery, leading to potential inaccuracies. Polysulfide polymers and reversible hydrocolloids have their applications, but they typically do not offer the same level of precision as polyether for definitive impressions in prosthodontics.