Abstract
The oral environment can negatively affect the physical properties of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials, which can lead to the deterioration of mechanical stability and reduce the span of their clinical usefulness. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of artificial saliva on the selected mechanical properties of FRC. The core of the polymer material selected for the study was a bundle of ultrahighmolecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers. Fourteen samples were stored in an incubator at 37°C, in 20 mL of artificial saliva solution, and weighed on days 1 and 28. At the same time, mechanical tests were performed, including the measurements of Young's modulus, tensile stress, maximum tensile force, and tensile deformation. The analysis of basic statistics together with the results of the Shapiro-Wilk test and the distribution of Spearman's rho coefficient showed a strong negative relationship between the pair of variables - tensile deformation and the sorption of synthetic saliva. The results related to Young's modulus of elasticity and tensile stress were not statistically significant. Water penetration into the space between the fibers does not adversely affect the mechanical properties of the material tested. In the static tensile test, high and desired mechanical strength was observed, which may justify the effective use of this type of material in clinical practice and may be a good alternative to prosthetic restorations, whose retention is obtained only through a mechanical connection with the abutment tooth.
Highlights
High strength and low weight make fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials an effective alternative to other prosthetic solutions
The oral environment can negatively affect the physical properties of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials, which can lead to the deterioration of mechanical stability and reduce the span of their clinical usefulness
In the static tensile test, high and desired mechanical strength was observed, which may justify the effective use of this type of material in clinical practice and may be a good alternative to prosthetic restorations, whose retention is obtained only through a mechanical connection with the abutment tooth
Summary
High strength and low weight make fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials an effective alternative to other prosthetic solutions. A fiber-reinforced composite is a material made of fibers (the reinforcing phase) and a resin polymer matrix (the organic phase). The polymer matrix constitutes a structural basis for the reinforcing fibers, protects them against occlusal trauma and transfers external tension to them. The polymer resin combines with the luting cement and gives the material a desired shape. Introducing fibers of a high elastic modulus into a soft matrix improves the strength and stiffness of the material, ensuring excellent mechanical properties of the composite in selective directions. The oral environment can negatively affect the physical properties of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials, which can lead to the deterioration of mechanical stability and reduce the span of their clinical usefulness
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
