Comparative Evaluation of Flexural Strength in High-Impact Acrylic, Cobalt-Chromium, and Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Composite Denture Bases: An In-vitro Study
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Published on: December 20, 2024
Dhivya Alagarsamy1, Ranjith Varghese2, Rajul Vivek3
1Department of Prosthodontics, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Dental College and Hospital, Perambalur, Tamil Nadu, India.
Background:
Polymethyl methacrylate is the commonly used denture base material because of its esthetics and handling properties. However, its low flexural strength predisposes it to fractures. To overcome this limitation, reinforcement, such as cobalt-chromium metal frameworks and carbon fiber-reinforced composites (CFRCs), has been proposed.
Materials And Methods:
An in-vitro study was conducted using 33 standardized specimens (65 × 10 × 3 mm3), divided into three groups (n = 11). Group 1-high-impact acrylic resin, Group 2-cobalt-chromium, and Group 3-CFRC. Flexural strength was tested using a three-point bending method on a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was then done using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests.
Results:
The mean flexural strength values for Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 were 129.73 MPa, 158.51 MPa, and 246.44 MPa, respectively. One-way ANOVA showed a statistically significant difference among groups (P < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis revealed significant differences between Groups 1 and 3 (P = 0.000) and Groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.005), but not between Groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.511).
Conclusion:
Among the tested materials, the highest flexural strength was exhibited by CFRC, indicating that it is a superior alternative to traditional cobalt-chromium and high-impact acrylic denture bases. Its mechanical advantage, along with its esthetic properties and reduced weight, make CFRC a promising material for complete denture applications. Future clinical studies are necessary to confirm its long-term performance.
