What is a disadvantage of using gypsum dies?

Using gypsum dies comes with several limitations, one of which is weak edge strength. This characteristic is significant because when creating dental models or prosthetics, the edges have to withstand various forces during the processing and serving phases. If the edge strength is inadequate, it may lead to chipping or breaking, compromising the integrity and accuracy of the dental work being produced.

The type of gypsum commonly used in dentistry, such as dental stone and plaster, tends to have lower compressive strength compared to other materials like metal or resin-based products. This means that while gypsum dies can capture fine detail in impressions, their delicate nature can make them less suitable for applications that require stable and durable edges.

In contrast, other materials associated with the remaining choices have different properties. For instance, low melting point does not apply notably to gypsum in dental uses, and while some materials might emit harmful fumes, gypsum is generally safe in terms of toxicity. The concern of an overly delicate structure is somewhat misleading, as the primary issue in the context of dental applications revolves around edge strength rather than overall fragility. Thus, the most accurate disadvantage related to gypsum dies focuses on their weak edge strength.