Search Results (48)

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

Background: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) have emerged as transformative materials in restorative dentistry, particularly for managing partial edentulism through fixed partial dentures (FPDs). Their superior aesthetic, mechanical, and adhesive properties offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional metal–ceramic restorations. Objective: This review aims to evaluate the historical evolution, clinical applications, technological advancements, and prospects of FRCs in prosthodontics, emphasizing their potential to deliver durable, aesthetic, and cost-effective treatment solutions. Methods: This narrative review follows the SANRA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 1995 and January 2025. Search terms included “fiber-reinforced composite”, “fixed prosthodontics”, “fixed partial dentures”, “adhesive restorations”, and “implant-supported restorations”. Only English-language studies addressing the clinical applications, mechanical properties, technological innovations, or survival outcomes of FRCs were included. Data were extracted from original research papers, systematic reviews, and narrative reviews. Results: Advancements in fiber architecture, resin matrices, and polymerization techniques have enhanced the strength, aesthetics, and longevity of FRC-based FPDs. Their high flexural strength, fatigue resistance, and compatibility with adhesive restorative techniques provide clinicians with versatile treatment options. Clinical studies demonstrate favorable survival rates and long-term success, positioning FRC FDPs as reliable alternatives to conventional restorations. Emerging technologies such as CAD/CAM and 3D printing further broaden their scope and precision. Conclusions: FRC FPDs have evolved from interim solutions to predictable, long-term restorations. With ongoing technological innovations and clinical validation, they are poised to become a mainstream treatment choice in prosthodontics. FRC FPDs offer a durable, aesthetic, and cost-effective solution aligned with minimally invasive dentistry, reducing tooth preparation while improving patient-centered outcomes. Full article

Background: Denture stomatitis (DS) represents an oral fungal infection induced by Candida albicans, impacting approximately 70% of the individuals who use removable acrylic dentures. Researchers suggest that the high level of the Candida species, particularly Candida albicans (C. albicans), is the predominant etiological factor of DS. Consequently, the development of a soft liner with antifungal activity might significantly enhance its therapeutic applicability. This in vitro study evaluates the impact of phosphate bioactive glass reinforced heat-cured acrylic-based soft liner on the candidal activity in this material. Method: Specimens (10 mm × 2 mm disc-like) were required for the selected test; PBG-Sr nano-powder was synthesized and added to the soft liner at percentages of 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, 5 wt.%, and 7 wt.%. The candidal adherence test was investigated, and characterization was performed by X-ray diffraction analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping, and particle size analysis. The resulting data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test. Results: Candidal adherence in the 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, 5 wt.%, and 7 wt.% PBG-Sr subgroups had decreased values in comparison to the control (0 wt.%), with the 7 wt.% subgroup demonstrating the lowest count of C. albicans (0.027), close to the nystatin group. Conclusions: PBG-Sr can diminish C. albicans adhesion in soft lining materials, and a soft liner containing PBG-Sr (7 wt.%) showed the most effective activity against C. albicans in the soft liner. Soft liners infused with bioactive glass may have the potential to assist those struggling with denture stomatitis, providing patients with enhanced therapeutic qualities. Full article

This study evaluated the effect of acidic environment and tooth brushing on the color stability and translucency of stained 3D-printed ceramic-reinforced composite (CRC) resins for indirect restorations and hybrid prostheses. Twelve specimens were prepared from each 3D-printing resin material: Ceramic Crown (CC), OnX (ONX), and Tough 2 (T2), and one CAD/CAM milling resin, Lava Ultimate (LU). After preparation, all specimens were stained, then immersed in either water or citric acid. Subsequently, the specimens underwent simulated tooth brushing for 3650 cycles. Color stability (ΔE) and translucency parameter (TP) were measured using a spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, post hoc Tukey tests, and independent Student t-tests (α = 0.05). Material type, immersion medium, and their interaction did not significantly influence the mean ΔE (p > 0.05). The lowest ΔE value was for LU in acid (ΔE = 1.11 ± 0.39), and the highest for T2 in water (ΔE = 2.09 ± 1.47). Except for ONX and LU in acid, all materials had ΔE values above the perceptibility threshold (ΔE = 1.2). The mean TP was significantly affected by material type, immersion medium, and their interaction (p < 0.05). The lowest TP value was for group CC in acid (0.91 ± 0.26); the highest was for group LU in acid (6.24 ± 0.56). After immersion and subsequent tooth brushing, TP values decreased for all materials. Exposure to an acidic environment and tooth brushing did not affect color stability but significantly reduced translucency. Both the 3D-printed CRCs and milled resin material displayed comparable color stability below clinically acceptable thresholds, though the translucency of 3D-printed materials remained lower compared to milled material. Full article

This study demonstrates that effervescent denture cleansers can influence the electrochemical behavior of cobalt–chromium (Co-Cr) alloys, with a particular focus on their corrosion resistance. The findings underscore the importance for dental professionals of selecting cleansers compatible with Co-Cr prostheses to minimize material degradation and enhance clinical durability. Corrosion resistance was evaluated using open-circuit potential (OCP), corrosion current density (i_corr), and passivation current density (i_pass). Surface morphology and elemental composition were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Forty specimens (n = 5 per group) were individually immersed in one of ten test solutions: distilled water (DW), artificial saliva (AS), and eight commercial denture cleansers—Polident 3 minutes™ (P3M), Steradent™ (St), Polident for Partials™ (PP), Efferdent™ (Ef), Corega Tabs™ (CT), NitrAdine™ (Ni), Fixodent™ (Fi), and Kukident™ (Ku). Each specimen was exposed a single solution to avoid cross-contamination. Results showed St, Ef, and Ku had higher OCP values than DW and Ni (p < 0.05), indicating better corrosion resistance. AS exhibited lower OCP values compared to St (p = 0.034), Ku (p = 0.023), and P3M (p = 0.050). DW had higher i_corr than PP (p = 0.030), CT (p = 0.005), and P3M (p = 0.003). For i_pass, DW had lower values than Ef (p = 0.025) and Ku (p = 0.016). SEM and EDS revealed no significant surface alterations. Understanding the underlying corrosion mechanisms in different solutions provides valuable insights into optimizing material performance and ensuring durability in clinical applications. The corrosion resistance of Co-Cr depends on the stability of the passive oxide layer, which can be degraded by chloride ions, reinforced by sulfate ions, and influenced by active ingredients in denture cleansers. Overall, the Co-Cr alloy demonstrated acceptable corrosion resistance, underscoring the importance of selecting suitable cleansers for prosthesis longevity. Full article

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fiber reinforcement materials on the magnitude of stresses in a critical part of the maxillary denture base under thermal and occlusal load. Thermal stress analyses of the models were carried out using the finite element method. The models consisted of bone, soft tissue, interface gap, and maxillary dentures with and without reinforcements. A concentrated occlusal load of 230 N was applied bilaterally on the molar teeth. A 36 °C reference and 0 °C, 36 °C, and 70 °C variable ambient temperatures were applied to the models. CrCo, unidirectional and woven carbon/epoxy, unidirectional and woven glass/epoxy, and unidirectional and woven Kevlar/epoxy were used as reinforcing materials in the maxillary denture base made of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate). Stress distributions on the maxillary denture’s midline and lateral line direction were evaluated. Maximum stresses in the incisal notch and the labial frenal notch of the maxillary denture were determined. Failure analysis of reinforcement materials used in maxillary dentures was carried out using the Tsai-Wu index criterion. The results obtained show that the thermal properties of reinforcement materials should be considered as an important criterion in their selection. Full article

Background: Complete dentures should withstand occlusal forces and wear. However, over time, dentures can suffer fatigue and develop cracks, chipping, and fractures. Conventional methods for the fabrication of complete dentures involve injection molding, thermal curing, and the use of microwaves with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-based materials. These methods have served well for many years. More recently, the incorporation of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to fabricate complete dentures has been shown to enhance the dentures’ mechanical properties, including resistance to wear and impact strength. This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties and fracture types of CAD/CAM denture base materials (both milled and printed) as compared to a novel proprietary method that embeds a 3D-printed framework within PMMA-milled blocks. The null hypothesis is that incorporating a 3D-printed framework does not affect the mechanical properties of milled PMMA blocks. Methods: Three groups of bars were fabricated using CAD/CAM methods: printed (P), milled (M), and milled with a 3D-printed metallic framework reinforcement (M + F). A three-point bending test evaluated deformation, followed by an impact fracture test for fracture toughness. A descriptive fractographic analysis assessed the fracture characteristics. A statistical analysis using a paired t-test compared the differences between the groups. Results: The P group showed more elastic deformation than the M and M + F groups (p < 0.05). The M + F group achieved a higher fracture toughness as compared to the M and P groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Within the limitations of this experimental study, the null hypothesis can be rejected. Milled samples with an embedded 3D-printed titanium framework possess higher resistance to impact than milled samples without frameworks, and printed samples and milled samples with embedded 3d-printed titanium frameworks present increased flexural strength and lower elastic deformation as compared to milled samples without frameworks and printed samples. Full article

Provisional fixed partial dentures represent a critical phase in dental treatment, necessitating heightened mechanical durability, particularly in comprehensive and extended treatment plans. Strengthening these structures with various reinforcing materials offers a method to enhance their resilience. Utilizing a three-point testing methodology on standardized trial specimens allows for a comparative assessment of various materials and reinforcement techniques for pre-prosthetic applications. This study aims to validate and assess the significance of integrating different reinforcing materials into standardized test bodies. The study focuses on test specimens comprising three types of unreinforced laboratory and clinical polymers for provisional constructions (n = 6)—heat-cured PMMA (Superpont C+B, Spofa Dental, Czech Republic), CAD-CAM prefabricated PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt, Germany), CAD-CAM printing resin (Temporary CB Resin, FormLabs, USA), self-polymerizing PEMA (DENTALON plus, Kulzer, Germany), light-polymerizing composite (Revotek LC, GC, Japan), and dual-polymerizing composite (TempSpan, Pentron, USA). Additionally, laboratory polymers are evaluated in groups with five types of reinforcing filaments (n = 15)—Glass Fiber (Fiber Splint One-Layer, Polydentia, Switzerland), Polyethylene thread (Ribbond Regular 4.0 mm, Ribbond Inc., USA), triple-stranded chrome-cobalt wire for splinting 015″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), Aesthetic ligature wire 012″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), and Glass Fiber coated with light-cured composite 8.5 × 0.2 mm (Interlig, Angelus, Brazil). Analysis of the data using Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) reveals that the experimental bodies, produced via the subtractive digital method using PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt GmbH, Germany) as the polymer and glass filaments as the reinforcement, exhibit superior mechanical properties, particularly when pre-wetted with Interlig liquid composite (Angelus, Brazil). Full article

The colonisation of the surface of removable acrylic dentures by various types of microorganisms can lead to the development of various diseases. Therefore, the creation of a bioactive material is highly desirable. This study aimed to develop a denture base material designed to release bioactive ions into the oral environment during use. Four types of bioactive glasses (BAG)—S53P4, Biomin F, 45S5, and Biomin C—were incorporated into the PMMA acrylic resin, with each type constituting 20 wt.% (10 wt.% non-silanised and 10% silanised) of the mixture, while PMMA acrylic resin served as the control group. The specimens were subsequently immersed in distilled water, and pH measurements of the aqueous solutions were taken every seven days for a total of 38 days. Additionally, surface roughness and translucency measurements were recorded both after preparation and following seven days of immersion in distilled water. The cytotoxicity of these materials on human fibroblast cells was evaluated after 24 and 48 h using Direct Contact and MTT assays. Ultimately, the elemental composition of the specimens was determined through energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. In general, the pH levels of water solutions containing BAG-containing acrylics gradually increased over the storage period, reaching peak values after 10 days. Notably, S53P4 glass exhibited the most significant increase, with pH levels rising from 5.5 to 7.54. Surface roughness exhibited minimal changes upon immersion in distilled water, while a slight decrease in material translucency was observed, except for Biomin C. However, significant differences in surface roughness and translucency were observed among some of the BAG-embedded specimens under both dry and wet conditions. The composition of elements declared by the glass manufacturer was confirmed by EDX analysis. Importantly, cytotoxicity analysis revealed that specimens containing BAGs, when released into the environment, did not adversely affect the growth of human gingival fibroblast cells after 48 h of exposure. This suggests that PMMA acrylics fabricated with BAGs have the potential to release ions into the environment and can be considered biocompatible materials. Further clinical trials are warranted to explore the practical applications of these materials as denture base materials. Full article

This technical note aims to present a recently developed computer-guided protocol characterized by titanium-reinforced stackable surgical guides during post-extractive implant placement and subsequent immediate loading. A full maxillary edentulism was rehabilitated with one-piece implants, starting from a pre-existing removable denture. 3D digital scans of the removable denture and upper and lower arches were performed. On this basis, a prototype with ideal esthetic and functional outcomes was realized and replicated into a custom-made radiological stent with markers. The superimposition of STL and DICOM files allowed virtual planning of one-piece implants in the ideal prosthetically driven position. The stackable guides, composed of a fixed base template and additional removable components, were then realized. The fixed template, initially secured with anchor pins to the bone, was no longer removed. The removable components, which were screwed to the base template, were used to perform implant surgery and immediate prosthetic loading. No surgical complications occurred, the implants achieved a minimum insertion torque of 35 Ncm, and immediate prosthetic loading was performed. The base template allowed for the maintenance of a fixed reference during the entire workflow, improving the transition between the digital project, the surgical procedure, and the prosthetic rehabilitation. Full article

The need to modify removable partial dentures equipped with a metal framework in order to add other prosthetic teeth to replace natural teeth lost by the patient could lead to laboratory procedures so complex as to require the creation of new prostheses with a heavy economic burden. The creation of preformed metal pins to be welded using the economical TIG cold welding method could represent a valid alternative solution with the aim of modifying the prostheses using a reinforced resin capable of adequately resisting masticatory loads. This study evaluates and compares the mechanical robustness and the clinical reliability of these modified prostheses in cases of junctions of one or two contiguous prosthetic teeth. The 6-month follow-up demonstrated the total validity of the method via the absence of significant breakages or detachments in all of the patients analyzed; on the other hand, the prostheses modified using the traditional method and used as controls showed a high incidence of fractures. Full article

An ideal denture base must have good physical and mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and esthetic properties. Various polymeric materials have been used to construct denture bases. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is the most used biomaterial for dentures fabrication due to its favorable properties, which include ease of processing and pigmenting, sufficient mechanical properties, economy, and low toxicity. This article aimed to comprehensively review the current knowledge about denture base materials (DBMs) types, properties, modifications, applications, and construction methods. We searched for articles about denture base materials in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. Journals covering topics including dental materials, prosthodontics, and restorative dentistry were also combed through. Denture base material variations, types, qualities, applications, and fabrication research published in English were considered. Although PMMA has several benefits and gained popularity as a denture base material, it has certain limitations and cannot be classified as an ideal biomaterial for fabricating dental prostheses. Accordingly, several studies have been performed to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of PMMA by chemical modifications and mechanical reinforcement using fibers, nanofillers, and hybrid materials. This review aimed to update the current knowledge about DBMs’ types, properties, applications, and recent developments. There is a need for specific research to improve their biological properties due to patient and dental staff adverse reactions to possibly harmful substances produced during their manufacturing and use. Full article

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) has been the most-widely used denture base material in prosthetic dentistry for the last 80 years. It is still one of the best alternatives when new methods are inapplicable. Due to the lack of some physical inadequacies occurring during cyclic use and accidental situations, various reinforcement strategies such as using nanoparticles, wires, fibers, and meshes have been investigated and reported. In this study, it was aimed to conduct a comparative investigation of the effect of fiber additives with different characteristics on the flexural properties of heat-cured PMMA denture base resins. Glass fibers (GFs), polypropylene fibers (PPFs), and carbon fibers (CFs) having 3, 6, and 12 mm lengths and 0.25, 0.50, and 1.0% concentrations (v/v) were used for the reinforcement of PMMA denture base resins. The flexural properties (flexural strength, flexural modulus, and maximum deformation) were determined using a three-point bending test, and three-way ANOVA analyses with Bonferroni corrections were performed on the test results. The morphologies of the fracture surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. All three fibers exhibited reinforcement in the flexural strength (p < 0.001) and flexural modulus (p < 0.001) regardless of their length and concentration. The group with 1.0% 12 mm CF-reinforced PMMA exhibited the greatest flexural strength (94.8 ± 8.8 MPa), and that with 1.0% 3 mm GFs displayed the lowest flexural strength (66.9 ± 10.4 MPa) among the fiber-reinforced groups. The greatest value of the flexural modulus was displayed by the 1.0% 3 mm CF-reinforced resin (3288.3 ± 402.1 MPa). Although the CF-reinforced groups exhibited better flexural properties, CFs are not favorable for use as reinforcement in practice due to the dark gray discoloration of the denture base resin. It was concluded that PPF is a promising material for the reinforcement of heat-cured PMMA denture base resins. Full article

High-performance polymeric materials have been used in computer-assisted design/ computer-assisted milling (CAD/CAM) dental restorative treatments due to their favorable esthetics as well as their mechanical and biological properties. Biocompatible poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) and glass-fiber-reinforced composite techno-polymer (FRC) resins reportedly possess good flexural and shock absorption properties. However, intraoral thermal fluctuations may adversely affect them. This study aimed to investigate the flexural strength and effect of thermal aging on two commercially available high-performance polymers intended for CAD/CAM milled frameworks for definitive restorations. A total of 20 bar specimens were prepared using two CAD/CAM materials (n = 10); PEEK(P) and Bioloren FRC(F). Specimens from each material group were randomly divided into two sub-groups (n = 5): before aging (uP and uF) and after aging, with 10,000 thermocycles (5–55 °C) (aP and aF). All specimens were subjected to a three-point bending test in a universal testing machine. Flexural strength (Fs) values were calculated for all specimens, and their means were statistically analyzed using a t-test, and a general linear model (GLM) repeated measure ANOVA (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant decrease in the Fs of (F) materials after aging (p = 0.03). (F) specimens exhibited significantly higher Fs than (P) before and after aging (p < 0.001). This type of material had a significant effect on Fs (p < 0.001). Within the limitations of this study, both materials exceeded the ISO recommendations of dental resins for flexural strength. However, FRC materials may benefit CAD/CAM milled long-span fixed partial dentures and implant-supported denture frameworks. Full article

Removable dental prostheses are commonly fabricated using polymethylmethacrylate, a material that does not have favorable mechanical properties and needs reinforcement with particles such as graphene. The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength (FS) and Vickers microhardness of a heat-polymerized polymethylmethacrylate coated with graphene-doped stannic oxide (SnO₂) thin films using a thermionic vacuum arc method after thermocycling. Forty bar-shaped specimens (65 × 10 × 3 mm) were fabricated using a heat-polymerized denture base resin and divided into four groups according to the graphene-doped SnO₂ thin film surface coating performed: No-coat (uncoated), Coat-15 s (coating duration of 15 s), Coat-20 s (coating duration of 20 s), and Coat-30 s (coating duration of 30 s) (n = 10). The thermionic vacuum arc method was used to coat both surfaces of the specimens of each test group with varying durations, and surface coating was verified using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Specimens were subjected to 10,000 cycles of thermocycling. Atomic force microscopy was used to evaluate the surfaces of all specimens before and after thermocycling. Microhardness values were measured five times and averaged. Then, each specimen was subjected to a three-point bending test, and FS values were calculated. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). Differences among test groups were nonsignificant when FS data were considered (p = 0.605). However, significant differences were observed among test groups when Vickers microhardness data were considered (p < 0.001). Coat-30 s had the highest hardness (p ≤ 0.003), while the difference among remaining groups were nonsignificant (p ≥ 0.166). Graphene-doped SnO₂ thin film surface coatings did not significantly affect the FS of tested heat-polymerized denture base resin but increased the Vickers microhardness when the coating duration was 30 s. Full article