Evaluation of polyamide (NYLON) versus polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base materials regarding water solubility: in vitro research

Abstract

BackgroundSeveral denture base materials have evolved over the years. Beginning with metal and ending up with various types of acrylic materials in order to have a biocompatible, antimicrobial denture base. A flexible acrylic resin, such as Polyamides, has been introduced to address the drawbacks of heat-cured PMMA resin. This study was conducted to examine the water solubility and water sorption of flexible thermoplastic polyamides (Valplast) and two types of conventional heat-cured acrylic resin (PMMA) (Acrostone, Vertex).MethodsSpecimens of thermoplastic polyamides and two types of conventional PMMA (Acrostone, Vertex) resin were manufactured and used in the current investigation in accordance with manufacturer instructions. A total of 45 specimens were milled into discs with a diameter of 50.0 mm diameter, 5.0 mm thick. To ascertain conformity with ADA Standard No. 12, water solubility and water sorption were measured.ResultsAll items complied with ADA regulations for water solubility and sorption. Flexible thermoplastic polyamide displayed less water solubility, and water sorption than heat-cured PMMA. Acrostone showed the higher water solubility, sorption followed by Vertex heat cure acrylic resin both heat cured showed significant higher water solubility than polyamides Valplast).ConclusionsWithin the limitations of this in vitro experiment, heat cure PMMA resin demonstrated significantly greater water solubility and water sorption when compared to thermoplastic polyamides.