Which type of trays are used to make impressions of the dental arch?

Impression trays are specifically designed for taking impressions of the dental arch. They provide the necessary structure to hold the impression material securely while capturing the details of the teeth and surrounding tissues accurately. These trays come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different arch types and are integral for procedures like creating study casts, custom trays, and for use in prosthodontics.

Other tray types, while useful in specific contexts, do not serve the primary function of capturing precise impressions of the dental arch. For example, orthodontic trays may be used in the orthodontic field but are tailored for specific treatments. Temporary trays are typically not intended for definitive impressions and may lack the rigidity or exact shaping needed for accurate representation of dental structures. Diagnostic trays, while useful for initial assessments, do not provide the accuracy required for formal impressions needed in restorative or surgical contexts. Thus, impression trays are the most suitable choice for capturing the dental arch accurately.