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Comparison between selective laser melted and cast removable partial denture frameworks.
Ahmad Maalhagh-Fard1, Nicholas J Ostrander2, Timothy R Saunders3
1Associate Professor and Director of Faculty Success Program, University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Detroit, Mich.
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|August 8, 2024
Summary
Selective laser melting (SLM) cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) alloys offer superior toughness and predictable failure stress compared to traditional cast Co-Cr for dental prosthetics. This advanced manufacturing method enhances micromechanical properties for improved clinical performance.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Materials Engineering
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Cast cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) frameworks for removable partial dentures (RPDs) can exhibit poor micromechanical properties, leading to clinical failures.
- Selective laser melting (SLM) presents a potential alternative manufacturing method for Co-Cr RPD frameworks with improved properties, but direct comparisons are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the micromechanical properties of Co-Cr alloys fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) against those produced by conventional casting for RPD frameworks.
Main Methods:
- Specimens were fabricated using both conventional casting and SLM techniques (n=10 each).
- Flexural testing under a 3-point configuration followed ISO standards to determine material constants and failure stress.
- Mechanical properties including elastic modulus, yield strength, strain to yield, ultimate flexural stress, and resilience were characterized using a universal testing machine.
Main Results:
- Selective laser melting (SLM) Co-Cr alloys demonstrated statistically significant improvements in toughness, yield strength, strain to yield, resilience, and strain to failure compared to cast Co-Cr (P<.001).
- Weibull analysis revealed a significantly different distribution of ultimate flexural strength between the SLM and cast groups (P<.001).
Conclusions:
- SLM fabricated Co-Cr alloy exhibits superior toughness compared to conventionally cast Co-Cr alloy.
- SLM Co-Cr alloys demonstrate greater flexure before permanent deformation, higher stress tolerance, and more predictable failure stress, indicating enhanced performance for RPD applications.
