In terms of impression materials, what does 'working time' refer to?

In the context of impression materials, 'working time' refers specifically to the time available for dental professionals to manipulate the material before it begins to set. This period is crucial as it allows the operator to accurately mix, apply, and position the impression material in the patient's mouth. During this time, the clinician must ensure that the impression captures the necessary details of the teeth and surrounding tissues for an accurate mold.

The importance of working time lies in the fact that once the material begins to set, it becomes rigid and unworkable, which can jeopardize the quality of the impression. Properly managing working time ensures optimal results, as it gives the assistant or clinician sufficient opportunity to achieve the best impression for further dental procedures, such as fabricating crowns, bridges, or dentures. Understanding this concept is essential for anyone involved in dental assisting, especially for those in expanded functions.