Microbial adherence and surface roughness of denture base materials: An in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Science
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Implant-supported overdentures are preferred for edentulous patients due to superior retention and stability.
• Material selection for overdenture bases significantly impacts clinical performance and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the surface roughness and microbial adherence of three different resin materials used for implant-supported overdentures.
• To evaluate heat-cured polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), CAD/CAM milled resin, and 3D-printed resin for prosthetic applications.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-eight specimens were fabricated and divided into three groups: heat-cured PMMA, CAD/CAM milled resin, and 3D-printed resin (n=26 each).
• Surface roughness (Ra) and microbial adherence were measured for all specimens.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare the groups and assess correlations.

Main Results:

• CAD/CAM milled resin demonstrated the lowest surface roughness (0.62 ± 0.12 µm) and microbial adherence (0.41 ± 0.09 OD).
• 3D-printed resin showed intermediate values (1.25 ± 0.18 µm Ra; 0.68 ± 0.12 OD).
• Heat-cured PMMA exhibited the highest surface roughness (1.82 ± 0.23 µm Ra) and microbial adherence (0.91 ± 0.15 OD).
• A significant positive correlation (r = 0.86, p < 0.001) was found between surface roughness and microbial adherence.

Conclusions:

• CAD/CAM milled resin offers superior surface smoothness, leading to reduced microbial adherence compared to heat-cured PMMA and 3D-printed resins.
• The findings suggest that CAD/CAM milled resins may provide enhanced hygienic properties for implant-supported overdentures.
• Material surface characteristics are critical factors influencing microbial colonization on dental prosthetics.