Search Results (47)

Background: Denture stomatitis is strongly associated with Candida biofilms on prosthetic surfaces and remains difficult to manage due to biofilm persistence and antifungal resistance. Selenium-based nanomaterials, particularly biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) functionalized with natural polymers or phytochemicals, have emerged as potential material-centered strategies for biofilm control. Objective: To systematically evaluate the antifungal and antibiofilm effects of selenium-based nanomaterials on Candida biofilms in the context of denture materials. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. Multiple databases were searched from inception without language restrictions. Eligible studies included experimental investigations of biogenic or functionalized SeNPs or organoselenium compounds targeting Candida biofilms on denture materials or in relevant in vitro models. A qualitative synthesis was performed due to anticipated heterogeneity. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these, four studies directly evaluated selenium-based interventions on denture materials, while seven provided supporting mechanistic evidence using in vitro models on non-denture substrates. Across denture-related studies, selenium-based modifications reduced fungal adhesion, biofilm biomass, and colony-forming units, without detrimental effects on material properties. Functionalization with polymers or phytochemicals was associated with enhanced antifungal activity and nanoparticle stability. Mechanistic studies suggested multimodal antifungal effects, including membrane disruption, inhibition of virulence factors, and modulation of biofilm-related pathways. Methodological quality was moderate, with common limitations in reporting and experimental standardization. Conclusions: Functionalized biogenic SeNPs show promising antifungal and antibiofilm activity against Candida in preclinical denture-related models. However, all available evidence is in vitro, with no in vivo or clinical studies identified. Substantial heterogeneity and limited long-term safety data preclude clinical recommendations. Further research should focus on standardized methodologies, clinically relevant in vivo models, and controlled clinical trials to assess translational potential. Full article

Surface roughness and mechanical performance are critical determinants of the clinical behavior, hygiene, and longevity of denture base materials. This study investigated the influence of two extrusion temperatures—280 °C and 300 °C—on both the surface roughness and compressive strength of ThermoSens thermoplastic polymer specimens over a 7-day immersion period. Surface roughness was evaluated at baseline, 24 h, and 7 days using a contact profilometer, while compressive strength was measured after 7 days following ISO 604 guidelines. Samples processed at 300 °C exhibited a significantly greater reduction in surface roughness over time (28.3%) compared with those processed at 280 °C (18.3%). However, although specimens processed at 300 °C showed a greater percentage reduction, their absolute roughness values remained higher than those processed at 280 °C. Compression testing demonstrated higher strength and modulus values in the 300 °C group (91.6 ± 1.8 MPa; 1887.9 ± 42.3 MPa) compared to the 280 °C group (82.3 ± 2.1 MPa; 1755.4 ± 38.7 MPa). These findings indicate a trade-off between improved mechanical performance at higher processing temperatures and lower surface roughness at lower temperatures, highlighting the need for the careful optimization of processing conditions. Full article

The increasing adoption of digital light processing (DLP) three-dimensional (3D) printing in prosthodontics has enabled the rapid fabrication of denture bases with improved dimensional accuracy and reproducibility. However, the mechanical performance and surface characteristics of 3D-printed denture base resins remain inferior to those of conventional heat-polymerized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), limiting their long-term clinical reliability. This study aimed to investigate the effect of incorporating zinc oxide (ZnO) and samarium oxide (Sm₂O₃) nanoparticles, individually and as hybrid nanofiller systems, on the mechanical and wettability properties of a DLP 3D-printed denture base resin. ZnO and Sm₂O₃ nanoparticles were incorporated into a photopolymerizable denture base resin at concentrations of 1 and 2 wt.%, producing seven experimental formulations, including a control group. A total of 280 specimens were fabricated using a DLP 3D printer and subjected to standardized post-processing. Nanoparticle dispersion and morphology were examined using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to assess possible chemical interactions between the nanofillers and the polymer matrix. Mechanical performance was evaluated through impact strength, transverse strength, and flexural strength tests, and surface wettability was assessed using static water contact angle measurements. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test (α = 0.05). The results demonstrated that all nanoparticle-reinforced groups exhibited significantly enhanced mechanical properties compared with the unmodified control resin. The incorporation of 1 wt.% nanofillers yielded the most pronounced improvements, with the 1 wt.% ZnO group achieving the highest transverse strength and the 1 wt.% ZnO–Sm₂O₃ hybrid group exhibiting the maximum flexural strength. Increasing the nanofiller concentration to 2 wt.% resulted in partial reductions in impact and flexural strength, which were attributed to nanoparticle agglomeration and increased light scattering during photopolymerization. FTIR analysis revealed no evidence of chemical bonding between the resin matrix and the nanofillers, indicating that the observed enhancements were primarily governed by physical reinforcement mechanisms. Wettability analysis showed that Sm₂O₃-containing formulations significantly reduced the water contact angle, indicating increased surface hydrophilicity, whereas ZnO incorporation produced more hydrophobic surfaces. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the findings suggest that low-concentration incorporation of ZnO and Sm₂O₃ nanoparticles represents an effective strategy to enhance the mechanical integrity and tailor the surface properties of DLP 3D-printed denture base resins. These results suggest potential clinical relevance of nanoparticle-reinforced printed denture bases, emphasizing the importance of optimized filler loading to avoid agglomeration-induced performance degradation. Full article

This narrative review examines contemporary applications of polymeric materials in dentistry from 2020 to 2025, spanning prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, endodontics, implantology, diagnostics, and emerging technologies. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase for peer reviewed English language articles and synthesized evidence on polymer classes, processing routes, mechanical and chemical behavior, and clinical performance. Approximately 116 articles were included. Polymers remain central to clinical practice: poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is still widely used for dentures, high performance systems such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK) are expanding framework and implant-related indications, and resin composites and adhesives continue to evolve through nanofillers and bioactive formulations aimed at improved durability and reduced secondary caries. Thermoplastic polyurethane and copolyester systems drive clear aligner therapy, while polymer-based obturation materials and fiber-reinforced posts support endodontic rehabilitation. Additive manufacturing and computer aided design computer aided manufacturing (CAD CAM) enable customized prostheses and surgical guides, and sustainability trends are accelerating interest in biodegradable or recyclable dental polymers. Across domains, evidence remains heterogeneous and clinical translation depends on balancing strength, esthetics, biocompatibility, aging behavior, and workflow constraints. Full article

(1) Background: Digitally fabricated denture base materials are increasingly used in everyday clinical practice, but scientific data on their properties is limited, especially regarding water sorption and water solubility. Water absorbed in denture base material penetrates between the polymer chains, acts as a plasticiser, and negatively affects mechanical properties. Residual monomers and other chemicals not chemically bonded in the polymer matrix can dissolve in water and may cause biological consequences such as irritation and inflammation of the oral mucosa or even allergic reactions. This can also have a deteriorating effect on the materials. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the water sorption and water solubility of digitally fabricated denture base materials. (2) Methods: Six denture base materials were used in this investigation: three subtractively manufactured materials, two additively manufactured materials, and one heat-cured poly(methyl methacrylate) material as a control group. The investigation was carried out according to ISO 20795-1:2013. (3) Results: Water sorption for the control group was 28.02 µg/mm³, while all digitally fabricated denture base materials showed statistically significantly lower values, ranging between 20.42 and 23.54 µg/mm³, with a statistical difference observed within the subtractively manufactured group. All materials had water sorption values below the upper limit of 32 µg/mm³ specified in ISO 20795-1:2013. Water solubility for subtractively manufactured materials ranged between 0.04 and 0.40 µg/mm³, with values both higher and lower than the control group, but with no statistical difference. Water solubility for additively manufactured materials was 3.01 and 3.22 µg/mm³, which was statistically significantly higher than the control group, and these results exceeded the upper limit of 1.6 µg/mm³ specified in ISO 20795-1:2013. (4) Conclusions: Digitally fabricated denture base materials showed improved water sorption compared to the heat-cured material, while water solubility for subtractively manufactured materials was similar to the heat-cured material and poorer for additively manufactured denture base materials, with results that did not meet the minimum requirements set by ISO 20795-1:2013. Full article

Recent evidence suggests that nano-TiO₂ particles improve antimicrobial and physical properties when incorporated into dental prosthetic materials. However, there exists a paucity of information regarding their impact on material properties when the prosthetic materials are 3D-printed over time. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the time-dependent printability and surface property changes occurring in a 3D-printed denture base resin containing nano-titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles. A 0.4 wt% concentration of 30 nm rutile TiO₂ nanoparticles was ultrasonically dispersed into a denture base resin. Disks were printed weekly using a Form 2 SLA printer until printing failed. Printability, surface roughness (R_a), color difference (ΔE_ab), and translucency parameters were measured across timepoints. Surface roughness was assessed via profilometry, while color and translucency were evaluated using a spectrophotometer under standardized conditions. Print failure occurred at week 8, beyond which the resin could no longer reliably produce full specimens. R_a roughness decreased from 3.83 µm to 0.48 µm, which denoted a significant time-dependent decrease (ρ = −0.733, p = 0.016). Color difference with the unmodified control declined from 26.32 to 17.13 ΔE_ab units (ρ = −0.976, p < 0.001). All printed samples exceeded the clinically acceptable thresholds for both R_a (0.2 µm) and ΔE_ab (<3.7). Although the printability of the resin–TiO2 mixture was maintained for 7 weeks, mixture homogeneity declined over time. TiO₂ additions to a denture polymer produced significant changes in surface roughness and color that were not clinically acceptable. Results from this study illustrate the time dependence required for retaining surface properties in 3D-printed dentures containing nano-TiO₂. Full article

Background/Objectives: Denture hygiene is essential for the prevention of oral candidiasis, a condition frequently associated with Candida albicans colonization on denture surfaces. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)-loaded montmorillonite (CPC-Mont) has demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy in tissue conditioners and demonstrates potential for use in antimicrobial coatings. In this study, we aimed to develop and characterize CPC-Mont-containing coating films for dentures, focusing on their physicochemical behaviors and antifungal efficacies. Methods: CPC was intercalated into sodium-type montmorillonite to prepare CPC-Mont; thereafter, films containing CPC-Mont were fabricated using emulsions of different polymer types (nonionic, cationic, and anionic). CPC loading, release, and recharging behaviors were assessed at various temperatures, and activation energies were calculated using Arrhenius plots. Antimicrobial efficacy against Candida albicans was evaluated for each film using standard microbial assays. Results: X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the expansion of montmorillonite interlayer spacing by approximately 3 nm upon CPC loading. CPC-Mont showed temperature-dependent release and recharging behavior, with higher temperatures enhancing its performance. The activation energy for CPC release was 38 kJ/mol, while that for recharging was 26 kJ/mol. Nonionic emulsions supported uniform CPC-Mont dispersion and successful film formation, while cationic and anionic emulsions did not. CPC-Mont-containing coatings maintained antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans on dentures. Conclusions: CPC-Mont can be effectively incorporated into nonionic emulsion-based films to create antimicrobial coatings for denture applications. The films exhibited temperature-responsive, reversible CPC release and recharging behaviors, while maintaining antifungal efficacy, findings which suggest the potential utility of CPC-Mont-containing films as a practical strategy to prevent denture-related candidiasis. Full article

Background and Objectives: Complete dentures remain a primary solution for oral rehabilitation in aging and medically compromised populations. The integration of digital workflows, regenerative materials, and smart technologies is propelling prosthodontics towards a new era, transcending the limitations of traditional static prostheses. Materials and Methods: This narrative review synthesizes historical developments, current practices, and future innovations in complete denture therapy. A comprehensive review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2000–2025) was conducted, with a focus on materials science, digital design, patient-centered care, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainable fabrication. Results: Innovations in the field include high-performance polymers, CAD–CAM systems, digital impressions, smart sensors, and bioactive liners. Recent trends in the field include the development of self-monitoring prostheses, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven design platforms, and bioprinted regenerative bases. These advances have been shown to enhance customization, durability, hygiene, and patient satisfaction. However, challenges persist in terms of accessibility, clinician training, regulatory validation, and ethical integration of digital data. Conclusions: The field of complete denture therapy is undergoing a transition toward a new paradigm of prosthetics that are personalized, intelligent, and sustainable. To ensure the integration of these technologies into standard care, ongoing interdisciplinary research, clinical validation, and equitable implementation are imperative. Full article

Color stability of acrylic resins is essential for preserving the aesthetic appearance of denture bases over time. This study explores how food pigments and thermal changes affect the color stability of commonly used denture base resins. Four acrylic resins were tested: three heat-cured acrylic resins with different characteristics (Zhermack^® Villacryl H Plus V2, H Plus V4, and H Rapid FN V4) and one self-cured acrylic resin (Zhermack^® Villacryl S V4). To simulate the oral environment, the resins underwent 1000 thermal cycles between 5 °C and 55 °C, followed by a 7-day immersion period in beverages such as coffee, red wine, a caramel-colored soft drink (cola), and distilled water (control), forming sixteen group of specimens (n = 5). Color changes (∆E) were measured using the VITA Easyshade V^® spectrophotometer, following the CIEDE2000 standard. The findings revealed that thermal aging caused noticeable color changes in all resins (p < 0.001). Red wine led to the most intense discoloration, followed by coffee. The caramel-colored soft drink caused moderate staining, while distilled water had a negligible effect. The type of polymerization did not affect the degree of discoloration, as no significant differences were found between the resins after exposure to beverages (p > 0.05). Overall, this study highlights how both internal and external factors impact the appearance of acrylic resins. Thermal aging can accelerate polymer degradation, while pigments in beverages cause visible staining. Among the tested beverages, red wine proved to be the most aggressive due to its high pigment concentration and low pH. These findings emphasize the need for improved material formulations to enhance the longevity and aesthetic performance of dentures. Full article

This study evaluated the strength, hardness, and color stability of 3D-printed denture base resins and compared the outcome with conventional heat-cured denture base resins after aging by thermocycling. A total of 72 specimens from conventional and 3D-printed materials were fabricated in different shapes and dimensions based on the mechanical and color tests performed. The specimens were divided into five groups: flexural, tensile, and compressive strengths (n = 20), hardness, and color stability (n = 6). In all these groups, half of the specimens were stored in a distilled water bath at 37 °C for 24 h, and the remaining half of the specimens were subjected to aging by thermocycling. The 3D-printed specimens demonstrated the highest means of tensile strength (32.20 ± 3.8 MPa), compressive strength (106.31 ± 4.07 MPa), and Vickers hardness number (24.51 ± 0.36), and the lowest means of flexural strength (54.29 ± 13.17 MPa) and color difference (ΔE = 2.18 ± 1.09). Conventional heat-cured specimens demonstrated the highest means of flexural strength (59.96 ± 8.39 MPa) and color difference (ΔE = 4.74 ± 2.37) and the lowest means of tensile strength (32.17 ± 9.06 MPa), compressive strength (46.05 ± 4.98 MPa), and Vickers hardness number (10.42 ± 1.05). Aging significantly reduced the flexural strength (−27%), tensile strength (−44%), and hardness (−7%) of 3D-printed resins in contrast to the conventional resin’s compressive strength (−15%) and color stability (p < 0.05). The 3D-printed resin had comparable flexural and tensile strength and significantly superior compressive strength, hardness, and color stability compared with conventional resins. Aging significantly and negatively affected the flexural strength, tensile strength, and hardness of 3D-printed resin. Full article

Newly developed 3D-printed polymer materials are used for denture base fabrication. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the color stability of two new 3D-printed resins, a hard PPMA-based and a soft Urethane-based resin, in relation to a traditional heat-polymerized PMMA resin, which was used for comparison purposes. Specimens of the materials were immersed in five solutions (distilled water, red wine, black tea, coffee, and Coke^®) for definite periods of time (one day, one week, and one month). The color measurements were carried out utilizing a spectrometer supported by a microscope and using special software. Color changes between immersion periods were calculated and statistically compared. The results showed that all types of resins were influenced during immersion periods. The heat-polymerized resin was influenced less than the others but with no significant difference to the 3D-printed hard PMMA resin. In respect to the materials compared, the discoloration effect for the 1 month immersion time was significantly more intense for the soft 3D-printed resin. In respect to the solutions’ staining effects, black tea and red wine significantly discolored all materials regardless of immersion periods. The new 3D-printed materials need further improvements for dental use. Full article

Background: Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, use digital models from computer-aided design to produce 3D objects. They are frequently employed in different areas of dentistry, such as orthodontics, oral implantology, and prosthodontics. Purpose: The aim of this review was to provide a comprehensive overview of 3D-printing technology for denture bases and explore the influence of incorporating different fillers into 3D-printed denture base resins on their physical, mechanical, and biological characteristics. Methods: Relevant studies were identified by searching papers published between 2010 and 2023 in several online databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar. The main inclusion criteria used during the search was identifying the papers which added nanoparticles in the resin as an agent to bring different functional characteristics within the 3D-printed denture base resin. Furthermore, even though the search criteria were set for finding papers from the past 10 years, development in this field has accelerated in the past 4–5 years. Findings: Various fillers have exhibited promising results in terms of their ability to improve the functional properties of the 3D-printed denture base resins. However, such improvements come at a higher cost with careful resin preparation when considering the filler particles, the fabrication complexities and the extensive post-processing that is required. Conclusions: The use of 3D-printing approaches and fillers to fabricate dentures is associated with significant benefits in terms of imparting functional properties, consistency in fabrication and opportunities for innovation. However, further research is required to acquire a better understanding of the holistic, long-term performance of various filler materials, concentrations, their clinical relevance and particularly the potential health risks from the fillers. Full article

A common challenge encountered with both traditional and digitally produced dentures involves the extraction of artificial teeth from the denture base. This narrative review seeks to present an updated perspective on the adherence of synthetic teeth for denture base materials, employing diverse methods. Dental technicians often employ chemical approaches and mechanical techniques (including abrasion, laser treatment, and abrasive blasting) to augment the retention of denture teeth. However, the efficacy of these treatments remains uncertain. In certain instances, specific combinations of Denture Base Resin (DBR) materials and artificial teeth exhibit improved performance in conventional heat-cured dentures following these treatments. The primary reasons for failure are attributed to material incompatibility and inadequate copolymerization. As new denture fabrication techniques and materials continue to emerge, further research is imperative to identify optimal tooth-DBR combinations. Notably, 3D-printed tooth–DBR combinations have demonstrated reduced bond strength and less favorable failure patterns, while utilizing milled and traditional combinations appears to be a more prudent choice until advancements in additive manufacturing enhance the reliability of 3D-printing methods. Full article

The current study sought to investigate the changes in surface hardness, roughness, and moisture absorption of the Vertex ThermoSens polymer (Vertex Dental, 3D Systems, The Netherlands) following immersion in artificial saliva for various periods (7, 14, and 28 days). A total of 60 rectangular specimens with dimensions of 20 mm in length, 20 mm in width, and 3 mm in thickness were made. Due to insufficient mold solidification, these specimens were made utilizing the injection molding process. A Mitutoyo Surftest 4 roughness meter (Mitutoyo, Aurora, IL, USA) was used to measure the surface roughness of the test materials. The ThermoSens polymer hardness was assessed using the Shor method and D—HSD scale, while absorption was measured with a Sartorius analytical balance. Results indicated the highest mean hardness after 28 days (M = 77.6) (Surface 1) and the lowest for the control group (M = 59) (Surface 2). The maximum surface roughness occurred in direction 2.2 pre-immersion (Ra = 2.88 μm) and 7 days post-removal (Ra = 2.95 μm). The control group exhibited the lowest absorption (Wsp = 1.524 mg/mm³), with the highest mean values over 28 days (Wsp = 1.541 mg/mm³). The elevated flask and plaster temperature slowed polymer solidification, resulting in longer macromolecules and improved mechanical properties and surface features. Full article

While functioning in the oral cavity, denture soft linings (SL) are exposed to contact with the microbiota. Dentures can offer perfect conditions for the multiplication of pathogenic yeast-like fungi, resulting in rapid colonisation of the surface of the materials used. In vitro experiments have also shown that yeast may penetrate SL. This may lead to changes in their initially beneficial functional properties. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of three months of exposure to a Candida albicans suspension on the mechanical properties of SL material and its bond strength to the denture base polymer, and to additionally verify previous reports of penetration using a different methodology. Specimens of the SL material used were incubated for 30, 60 and 90 days in a suspension of Candida albicans strain (ATCC 10231). Their shore A hardness, tensile strength, and bond strength to acrylic resin were tested. The colonization of the surface and penetration on fractured specimens were analysed with scanning electron and inverted fluorescence microscopes. Exposure to yeast did not affect the mechanical properties. The surfaces of the samples were colonised, especially in crystallized structures of the medium; however, the penetration of hyphae and blastospores into the material was not observed. Full article