Study on a Novel Dental Resin Matrix with a Fluorinated Polyurethane Dimethacrylate Monomer

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Conventional dental resin monomers like Bis-GMA suffer from polymerization shrinkage, hydrolytic degradation, and bacterial adhesion.
• These limitations can compromise the longevity and performance of dental restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel fluorinated polyurethane dimethacrylate (FPUDMA) monomer.
• To evaluate the impact of FPUDMA incorporation on the properties of experimental resin matrices, aiming to overcome Bis-GMA limitations.

Main Methods:

• FPUDMA was synthesized via solution polymerization.
• Resin matrices were formulated with varying FPUDMA percentages (0-60%).
• Properties assessed included surface characteristics, hydrolysis resistance, degree of conversion, polymerization shrinkage, mechanical properties, bacterial adhesion, and cytocompatibility.

Main Results:

• FPUDMA synthesis was successful, yielding a low-viscosity monomer.
• FPUDMA incorporation increased surface fluorine content, water contact angle, and degree of conversion.
• Significant reductions in water sorption, solubility, polymerization shrinkage (up to 31.41%), and bacterial adhesion were observed.
• Optimal flexural strength and hardness were achieved with 30% FPUDMA, alongside good cytocompatibility (>90% cell viability).

Conclusions:

• The resin matrix with 30 wt% FPUDMA demonstrated superior overall performance.
• FPUDMA enhances hydrolytic resistance, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility while reducing shrinkage and bacterial adhesion.
• Further evaluation in composite resins and in vivo/clinical studies are recommended to confirm long-term benefits.