A Sneak Peek Toward Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) Polymer: A Review

Metals, acrylics, zirconia, and other such materials have been conventionally used in dentistry. The development of polymers has facilitated significant changes in clinical dentistry. High-performance polymer materials are at the forefront of dentistry. Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) is a biocompatible polycyclic, aromatic, thermoplastic polymer having good mechanical and thermal properties. It has two members: polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyetherketoneketone (PEKK). The difference in the ratio and structure of ether to ketone group affects the melting point and glass transition temperature. PEEK and PEKK have a high impact with their physical and mechanical characteristics similar to that of the bone and mimic the natural tooth structure. It can be used as a substitute for metals and other materials owing to its non-allergic properties and acceptable aesthetics. Currently, to modify the properties of both materials, additives were used. This semicrystalline structure does not provide any kind of mutagenicity and cytotoxicity. This review provides insight into the properties and applications of polymer in dentistry and the medical field as well. There is room for metal-free restorations in modern dental practice due to the rising demand for aesthetics, a few disadvantages with existing materials, and clinicians changing their paradigms toward metal-free restorations. The objective of this review is to provide a thorough understanding of PEEK and PEKK and their multiple uses in prosthetic, implant frameworks, abutments, crowns, and ortho wires, as well as in restorative dentistry, while demonstrating their potential for clinical applications.