Acrylic Reinforcement with Off the Shelf Perforated Metal Plates

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a common denture base material.
• Denture base fractures remain a clinical concern, impacting patient function and satisfaction.
• Reinforcement strategies are crucial for improving the mechanical properties of PMMA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a Dentaurum Grid Strengthener on the flexural strength and modulus of two PMMA types.
• To determine if the grid strengthener enhances the mechanical performance of PMMA for denture applications.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four PMMA beams with integrated grid strengtheners and twenty-four control beams were fabricated.
• A three-point bending test was performed at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min.
• Flexural strength and modulus were calculated, and data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA.

Main Results:

• Reinforced high-impact resin exhibited the highest mean strength (96.2±14.3 MPa) and flexural modulus (3425±779 MPa).
• Both the type of resin and the presence of the grid strengthener significantly affected flexural strength and modulus.
• The grid strengthener incorporation led to increased strength and modulus across both PMMA types.

Conclusions:

• The Dentaurum Grid Strengthener effectively enhances the flexural strength and modulus of PMMA.
• Reinforcing PMMA with a grid strengthener can reduce the probability of denture fracture.
• This finding has significant clinical relevance for improving denture longevity and patient outcomes.