PEKK-made indirect temporary crowns and bridges: a clinical pilot study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Cobalt-chrome (CoCr) has been a standard material for dental restorations.
• High-performance polymers like PEKK are being explored as alternatives.
• Evaluating PEKK for temporary restorations requires comparison with established materials like CoCr.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Polyetheretherketone (PEKK) as a biocompatible, stable, and comfortable alternative to cobalt-chrome (CoCr) for temporary fixed restorations.
• To compare clinical performance and patient-reported outcomes between PEKK and CoCr temporary restorations.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-two patients received randomized temporary fixed restorations, either veneered PEKK or veneered CoCr.
• Clinical parameters (plaque index, probing depth, fracture, chipping) were monitored for 3-5 months.
• Patient comfort was assessed using the OHIP-14 questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Both PEKK and CoCr restorations improved oral hygiene and probing depth without significant differences.
• No chipping was observed in either material group within 5 months.
• Patients reported reduced pain and discomfort with both temporary restoration types, with no significant differences between PEKK and CoCr.

Conclusions:

• PEKK-made temporary restorations provide a viable and stable alternative to CoCr restorations.
• PEKK offers superior aesthetic advantages over CoCr restorations.
• Aesthetic and cost-effective temporary crowns, like those made from PEKK, can enhance periodontal therapy success by improving oral hygiene.