The Impact of Oxygen Concentration on the Postcuring of 3D-Printed Dental Resin.

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of reducing the oxygen concentration via nitrogen injection during the postcuring process of 3D-printed dental materials. Resin specimens for dental crown and bridge (15-mm diameter, both 1-mm and 2-mm heights) were 3D-printed and rinsed. Subsequently, the postcuring process was conducted on nine groups categorized according to atmospheric conditions within the curing device (20% [control], 10%, and 5% oxygen) and curing times (10, 15, and 20 minutes). Surface roughness was measured using a gloss meter. Surface polymerization was confirmed through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis, and the flexural strength and elastic modulus of the specimens were measured using a universal testing machine. Water absorption and solubility were determined according to Inernational Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. All evaluation criteria were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test based on oxygen concentration. The elastic modulus did not show statistically significant differences in all groups. However, compared to the control group, the flexural strength, degree of conversion, and gloss significantly increased in the groups with decreased oxygen concentrations. Conversely, water solubility and water absorption significantly decreased in a few groups with reduced oxygen concentration. Reducing oxygen concentration through nitrogen injection during the postcuring process of 3D printing enhances the suitability of the dental prosthetic materials. The significant increase in flexural strength can particularly enhance the utility of these materials in dental prosthetics.