Radioprotection Performance Evaluation of 3D-Printed and Conventional Heat-Cured Dental Resins for Radiotherapy...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Radiology
• Dental Materials

Background:

• 3D printing is gaining traction in dentistry, utilizing biocompatible resins.
• Understanding the radioprotective capabilities of these resins is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the radioprotective properties of a 3D-printed resin with traditional heat-cured resin.
• To investigate the influence of material thickness on radiation attenuation for both resin types.

Main Methods:

• 100 resin specimens (3D-printed and heat-cured) with thicknesses from 6 to 14 mm were prepared.
• Specimens were subjected to external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy.
• Radiation attenuation was measured and compared between resin types and thicknesses.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in radiation attenuation was observed between 3D-printed and heat-cured resins under EBRT conditions.
• In brachytherapy, 3D-printed resin showed significantly lower attenuation than heat-cured resin at 6 mm and 8 mm thicknesses.
• Both resin types demonstrated a significant positive linear correlation between thickness and radiation attenuation (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed resins exhibit promising radioprotective properties, serving as a viable alternative to traditional heat-cured resins.
• Material thickness significantly impacts radiation attenuation for both resin types.