Comparative evaluation of flexural strength of conventional and reinforced heat cure acrylic resins: An In vitro study

Abstract

Aim: The aim is to comparatively evaluate flexural strengths (FSs) of conventional and various types of reinforced heat cure acrylic resins. Objectives: To determine the FS of conventional (polymethylmethacrylate [PMMA]) denture base material and reinforced resins by the addition of 2% by weight glass fibers and metal mesh reinforcement, respectively. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 specimens of similar dimensions were prepared for each of the three experimental groups: conventional acrylic resin and the same resin reinforced with glass fibers and with metal mesh. FS was evaluated with a three-point bending test. The results were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance. Results: All reinforced specimens showed better FS than the conventional acrylic resin. Specimens reinforced with metal mesh showed the highest FS, followed by glass fibers. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, the FS of heat-polymerized PMMA denture resin was improved after reinforcement with glass fibers and metal mesh.