Water sorption by maxillary acrylic resin denture base and consequent changes in vertical dimension

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Dental Prosthetics

Background:

• Acrylic resin is a common denture base material.
• Previous studies focused on physical properties and processing changes.
• Limited research exists on water sorption effects on vertical dimensions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure vertical dimension changes in acrylic dentures due to water sorption.
• To assess vertical tooth movement within dentures caused by water sorption.

Main Methods:

• 25 maxillary acrylic dentures were subjected to water sorption.
• Vertical measurements and individual tooth movements were recorded over time.

Main Results:

• Maximum water sorption and vertical dimension changes occurred within 24 hours.
• No significant changes were observed after 28 days of water immersion.
• Water sorption influences molecular mobility and can relieve internal stresses.

Conclusions:

• Water sorption significantly impacts acrylic denture vertical dimensions, primarily within the first 24 hours.
• Denture stability may be affected by water sorption-induced dimensional changes.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of water sorption on denture retention.