You can modify a metal tray with wax. You can add wax posteriorly to make it longer. If the patient has a high palate, you can add wax to the palatal portion of the tray so that the alginate will be carried to the palate.

The green plastic stock tray can be softened and reshaped by gently warming it over a Bunsen flame. Wear gloves to protect your hands. When the tray cools it will maintain its new shape. You cannot use plastic trays for secondary impressions.

Since plastic trays cannot be sterilized, they must be discarded after use for an individual patient.

©1999 by Julius Rosen, D.D.S.