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Load-To-Failure of Cantilevered Provisional Implant-Supported Prostheses: Conventional Versus 3D-Printed Resins
Térsia Cristina Silva Macedo1, Carolina Neves Tannous Dib2, Maribi Isomar Terán Lozada3
1Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Objective:
Cantilever extensions in full-arch implant-supported provisional prostheses represent a clinical challenge frequently associated with biomechanical complications. This study aimed to evaluate the load-to-failure and deflection of acrylic and 3D-printed resins used in the cantilever region of implant-supported provisional prostheses fabricated over mini-abutment cylinders.
Materials And Methods:
Forty standardized specimens with 15-mm cantilever were allocated into four groups (n = 10): auto-polymerized resin (RA), high-impact thermo-polymerized resin (RD), 3D-printed resin (RI) and thermo-polymerized denture resin reinforced with metallic infrastructure (RT, control). Load-to-failure and displacement were measured using a universal testing machine and deflectometer (Instron). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05).
Results:
Significant differences were observed among all materials (p < 0.001). The control group showed the highest load-to-failure (553 N), followed by RI (506 N), RD (440 N), and RA (396 N). The 3D-printed resin group exhibited the lowest deflection value (2.33 mm) and the high-impact resin the greatest (5.07 mm).
Conclusion:
Material selection critically influences the biomechanical stability of cantilevered provisional implant prostheses. The high-impact resin showed higher degree of flexibility; and the RI group greater load bearing capacity, time efficiency, and predictability, therefore both are suitable alternatives for full-arch temporary implant-supported rehabilitations.
