Comparative Clinical Study of Retention in Complete Denture Bases Using Green Stick Compound and Polycaprolactone Border Molding Materials: An In Vivo Study.

Background Retention is a critical determinant of complete denture success, with border molding playing a pivotal role in establishing an effective peripheral seal. While green stick compound has long been the conventional material, polycaprolactone (PCL) has recently emerged as a promising alternative. Aim This study aimed to compare the retention, patient comfort, and operator handling characteristics of complete denture bases fabricated using green stick compound and PCL border molding materials. Objectives The objectives of this study were to assess the retention achieved with green stick compound, to evaluate the retention obtained using PCL, to compare patient comfort during border molding procedures with both materials, and to statistically analyze the differences in retention between the two groups. Materials and methods A comparative clinical study was conducted on 17 edentulous patients. Two custom trays were fabricated per patient, with border molding performed using green stick compound (Group A) and PCL (Group B). Final impressions were made with zinc oxide eugenol paste. Retention was objectively measured using a standardized pull test, patient comfort was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and operator feedback was recorded via a study-specific structured Likert scale questionnaire. Results PCL demonstrated significantly higher retention (32.82 ± 12.59 N) compared to green stick compound (28.99 ± 10.32 N) (paired t-test; t = -4.395, p < 0.001). Patient comfort scores were significantly greater with PCL (9.41 vs. 8.65; Z = -3.557, p < 0.001). Operator feedback favored PCL, with significant differences observed in handling, adaptability, and reheating characteristics (p < 0.05). All denture bases in both groups were clinically stable during functional movements. Conclusion PCL provides superior denture retention, enhanced patient comfort, and improved handling characteristics compared to green stick compound. The improved retention may be attributed to its superior thermoplastic adaptability and ability to achieve an effective peripheral seal, making it a clinically advantageous alternative for border molding in complete denture fabrication.