Effect of Various Reinforcing Materials for Resin Denture Base

Abstract

Purpose: This study evaluated the effect of reinforcing materials on the mechanical strength of acrylic resin denture base (polymethylmethacrylate; PMMA). Three reinforcing materials were embedded in the heat-cure acrylic resin: polyethylene fiber-PMMA composite, glass fiber-PMMA, and strengthener-PMMA hybrid composite. The flexural strength test and dye penetration test were applied to each reinforced specimen.
Methods: Rectangular test specimens were modified by incorporating additional reinforcing materials: untreated polyethylene fibers, glass fibers, and strengthener. The same size of acrylic specimen without any reinforcing material was selected as a control. The flexural strength test was executed with Auto Graph AG-5000 (Shimadzu) after storing the specimens in water at 37°C for two weeks. The dye penetration test of the specimens was evaluated by measuring with a Profile Projector PJ 311 (Mitutoyo) after storing them in a 3% aqueous solution of basic fuchsin dye for 72 hours.
Results and Conclusions: The results suggested that reinforcing materials enhanced the flexural strength of PMMA, while the use of additional fiber reinforcement made of polyethylene or glass fibers in the test specimens did not affect the flexural strength. The additional reinforcing materials of the test specimen did affect the flexural strength.