Resin Specimens Research Articles

Impact of Biofilms on Surface Properties of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Resins.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) resins are widely used in medical and dental applications. Their susceptibility to bacterial biofilm formation poses significant challenges related to material degradation and infection risk. This study investigated the effects of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms on PMMA resin surface properties over a 45-day period at 35°C. The study examined various parameters including biofilm adhesion, morphology, surface roughness, hydrophobicity, solid fraction, and zeta potential. PMMA resin specimens were inoculated with bacteria and incubated for 45 days. Biofilm adhesion was visually assessed, while surface characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), roughness analysis, contact angle measurements, solid fraction determination, and zeta potential analysis. The P. aeruginosa and S. aureus isolates were selected based on their biofilm-positive characteristics, which were further confirmed using Congo red and biofilm formation assays through crystal violet staining and spectrophotometric analysis. The results demonstrated robust biofilm adhesion on PMMA surfaces. SEM and AFM imaging revealed textured surfaces with elevated structures and depressions within the biofilm matrix. Biofilm-exposed resins exhibited significantly increased roughness (Ra = 164.5 nm, Rq = 169.5 nm) and hydrophobicity (mean angle = 85.5°-90.5°) compared to control samples (Ra = 38-50 nm, angle = 55°). Solid fraction measurements indicated a denser biofilm matrix on exposed resins (0.908) compared to controls (0.65). Additionally, zeta potential values were more negative for biofilm-exposed resins (mean = -84.2 mV) than controls (-45.0 mV). These findings underscore the substantial alterations in PMMA resin surface properties induced by bacterial biofilms, emphasizing the critical need for strategies to prevent biofilm formation and mitigate associated risks in healthcare settings. Future research should focus on developing anti-biofilm coatings or treatments to preserve the integrity and functionality of PMMA materials.

Evaluation of Color and Translucency Changes of PEEK Material Veneered with Single-Shade Composite Resins

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the color and translucency changes of single-shade composites used in veneering polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material after aging. Materials and Methods: 3 single-shade composites with different chemical structures and 1 conventional composite resin were applied on the PEEK material with a thickness of 2 mm (N=40, n=10). L, a, and b color coordinates of each specimen were measured three times with a spectrophotometer on a black, gray, and white background from the center of the specimen, and the average of these measurements was recorded. The specimens were subjected to 5000 cycles of thermal aging at 5-55°C. After aging, color measurements were repeated. Color changes (ΔE00) and translucency parameters (ΔTP00) of composite resin specimens were determined before and after aging using CIEDE 2000 color formulas. The data obtained were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey HSD test (p<0.05). Results: As a result of the study, the color change of all composite resin materials was found to be below the clinically acceptable limit (ΔE = 1.8). The lowest color change was observed in the traditional composite group, and a statistically significant difference was found between the other groups (p<0.05). The translucency change of single-shade composite materials was found to be statistically lower than that of conventional composite resin (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study's results show that single-shade composite resins can be used as an optical alternative to traditional composites in direct veneering of the PEEK material.

Effect of different parameters on mode I fracture toughness of resin samples manufactured by DLP

Abstract Additive manufacturing is spreading rapidly in almost all industries, from household to advanced engineering. Components produced by Digital Light Processing (DLP) are not comprehensively characterized, but exceed the capabilities of many AM processes. Its advantages include the ability to produce highly complex designs, superior precision, fast printing and lower operating costs. The present paper investigates the mode I fracture toughness (KIC) of UV-sensitive resin specimens obtained through DLP process. Single edge notch bending (SENB) specimen were 3D printed and tested according to the ASTM D5045 standard. The influence of printing orientation-PO (0°, 45° and 90°), resin color-RC (white, black and transparent) and corrosive environment-CE (air, water and saline solution) was studied. It was observed that all the studied parameters have some effect on the fracture properties. The highest KIC values were obtained for 45°-PO, white-RC (1.88 MPa•m0.5) and saline solution-CE (2.24 MPa•m0.5). However, the greatest influence is highlighted by RC (∼92%), while CE (∼32%) shows a minimal effect. The fracture surface of the investigated samples is influenced by the printing parameters.

Investigation of the failure mechanisms of photocurable resins under explosive shock loads

Resin components produced by photocuring technology and 3D printing are commonly utilized as seals across various media owing to their flexible molding, precise structure, and excellent watertightness. Under certain specific conditions, it is necessary to detach the photocurable resin seals from the main body using explosive cord blasting. However, the mechanical performance of photocurable resins under explosive shock loads remains underexplored. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying the destruction of photocurable resins by explosive cords in different environments. We conducted explosive shock experiments on photocurable resin specimens both in air and underwater and employed explicit dynamics software to simulate the damage process of the resin material. The experiments showed that a 10 mm thick specimen in air reached a critical fracture state under the equivalent explosive shock of the explosive cord, leading to adjustments in the constitutive parameters of the photocurable resin model in the simulations. In addition, the JH-2 strength and failure model was applied in AUTODYN explicit dynamics software to characterize the mechanical properties of the resin materials. The fluid–structure interaction method was utilized for modeling and simulating the shock process on photocurable specimens in air and water, clarifying the role of groove shape in the fracture state of the specimens and the failure mechanisms of the photocurable resin materials under explosive shock.

Radioprotection Performance Evaluation of 3D-Printed and Conventional Heat-Cured Dental Resins for Radiotherapy Prostheses.

3D printing is increasingly used in dentistry, with biocompatible resins playing a key role. This study compared the radioprotective properties of a commonly used 3D-printed resin (Formlabs surgical guide resin) with traditional heat-cured resin and examined the relationship between material thickness and radiation attenuation. The specimens consisted of 3D-printed and heat-cured resin specimens, each measuring 45 × 45 mm2, with five different thicknesses (6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 mm), totaling 100 samples. Both types of resin specimens underwent testing with 150 MU external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and 400 cGy brachytherapy. Radiation experiments indicated that under EBRT conditions, there were no significant differences in radiation attenuation between the 3D-printed and heat-cured resins across all thickness groups. In brachytherapy, the attenuation of the 3D-printed resin was significantly lower than the heat-cured resin in the 6 mm and 8 mm groups. Specifically, attenuation rates were 48.0 ± 0.7 (3D-printed) vs. 45.2 ± 1.9 (heat-cured) in the 6 mm group, and 39.6 ± 1.3 vs. 37.5 ± 1.1 in the 8 mm group. Both resins showed significant positive linear correlations between thickness and attenuation (p < 0.001) within 6-14 mm. Thus, 3D-printed resin shows promising radioprotective properties and is a viable alternative to traditional heat-cured resin.

Antimicrobial, Optical, and Mechanical Properties of Saliva-Contaminated Silver–Zeolite Nanoparticle-Incorporated Dental Acrylic Resins

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the flexural strength, color change and antimicrobial effect of silver–zeolite nanoparticles (NPs) in acrylic resin materials. Methods: Fifty-six disc-shaped acrylic resin samples were divided into four groups (n = 7) according to concentrations of silver–zeolite NPs (0%, 2%, 4%, 5%). Discs were contaminated with C. albicans and S. mutans. The antimicrobial effect was tested by inoculating contaminated discs on Tryptic soy agar (TSA), Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA), Tryptic soy broth (TSB), and Sabouraud dextrose broth (SDB). Forty rectangular 65 × 10 × 2.5 mm acrylic resin specimens were also classified into four groups (n = 10) according to concentrations of silver–zeolite NPs. For the color change, L, a, and b values of rectangular specimens were examined with a spectrophotometer. A three-point bending test was also performed using a Devotrans device to determine the flexural bond strength of rectangular specimens. Scanning electron microscope analysis (SEM/EDX analysis) was also performed. Results: In this study, the antimicrobial effect increased with the concentration of silver–zeolite NPs added to acrylic resin discs. In our study, adding 2% silver–zeolite NPs was more effective against C. albicans. The antimicrobial effect against S. mutans increased with concentration of silver–zeolite NPs (&lt;0.001). The colonization of C. albicans was significantly reduced by silver–zeolite NPs. A significant increase was observed in the color change as the nanoparticle percentage ratio increased (p &lt; 0.001). The flexural strength values of the groups containing 2% and 4% nanoparticles were found to be clinically acceptable. Conclusions: The study showed that bacterial and fungal colonization is significantly reduced by adding silver–zeolite nanoparticles to acrylic resin discs. Based on its antimicrobial, physical, and mechanical properties, we recommend adding 2% silver–zeolite nanoparticles to the acrylic resin material for optimal results.

Assessing the Aesthetic Performance of CAD/CAM Provisional Restorative Materials: A Spectrophotometric Analysis.

Achieving color match between natural teeth and restorative materials is crucial in dentistry. Factors such as the light source, brightness, and opacity influence tooth color, determined by light absorption and scattering within the material. Advances in CAD/CAM systems have enhanced prosthodontic treatments, particularly with new temporary materials, but data on their color stability and masking ability remains limited. However, data on the color stability and masking ability of these CAD/CAM materials is limited. Telio® CAD-Temp and VITA CAD-Temp® blocks were cut into slices and polished. Composite resin specimens were prepared using a custom-designed metal resin former and light-cured. Samples were paired randomly and assigned to experimental groups based on base type and thickness (n = 30). Samples were stored in a controlled environment for 24 h before color evaluation using an EasyShade® V spectrophotometer. Color difference (ΔE) was calculated using L*, a*, and b* values. Statistical analyses included the Shapiro-Wilk test, Levene's test, and three-way ANOVA, with post-hoc comparisons using the Bonferroni method (α = 0.05). ΔE was classified according to perceptibility (PT = 1.2) and acceptability (AT = 2.7) values.

Comparative study for Enhancing Poly (methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA) Performance with Engineered Nanomaterials

Objectives:The current study was intended to evaluate and compare the effect of addition of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles versus Zirconium oxide nanoparticles to denture base materials regarding: impact strength and water sorption Materials and Methods: Thirty heat-polymerized acrylic resin specimens with the dimensions of (60x8x2 mm) were prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions and divided into three groups each group 10 specimens first group was the control group , the Second group incorporated with 1.5wt% TiO2NPs (Titanium dioxide nanoparticles) to the heat-polymerized acrylic resin powder. And the third group incorporated with 1.5wt% ZrO2NPs (zirconium dioxide nanoparticles) to the heat-polymerized acrylic resin powder : impact strength was examined using Universal Testing Machine. A non-contact optical to compare different groups. water sorption were evaluated for all specimens. Data were statistically analyzed. Results:for heat cured acrylic resin with Zirconium dioxide nanoparticles for flexural stregth ,impact strength and water sorption was the highest value compared to Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Conclusions:ZrO2NPs nanoparticles have increased flexural stregth of resins as the concentration increase. For impact strength, water sorption compared to heat cured acrylic resin reinforced with Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

Evaluating the physical properties of microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials after the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles.

Background: The structural, physical, and mechanical properties of denture-based acrylic resin are still compromised by water sorption, water solubility, and porosity. These issues have long called for improved techniques, and the use of nanoparticles is one of them. The main objective of the current investigation was to evaluate and contrast some physical parameters (water sorption, water solubility, and porosity) after the incorporation of ZrO2 nanoparticles (0%, 3% and 5%) into heat-cured acrylic denture base materials (Ivoclare, Major) and microwave-cured acrylic (Acron MC). Materials and methods: A total of 60 resin specimens were manufactured, including 5 specimens for each concentration of ZrO2 NP (30 for porosity and 30 for water sorption and solubility). Followed the manufacturer's directions for preparing the sample of each material. Results: The results were analysed with descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance(ANOVA) test, Duncan multiple range test, and independent T test demonstrated that the addition of nanoparticles (3% and 5%) decreased water sorption, water solubility, and porosity of PMMA(polymethyl methacrylate) for both types(microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials). Where, at 3%, the ZrO2 nanoparticles showed the best values for all tests compared to the control group. Conclusions: ZrO2 (3% and 5%) nanoparticle reinforcement of acrylic resin can be a useful tactic for lowering water sorption, solubility and porosity, thereby enhancing the performance of the material in various applications for microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials.

The effect of semi-curing on neat resin mode I fracture properties

The sensitivity of fracture toughness to the cure path of a high-performance hot infusion epoxy resin (EP2410) is assessed in this study through single-edge notch bend testing of neat resin specimens. The specimens were prepared using a two-stage semi-curing process. In the initial stage, the partial degree of cure and the semi-cure temperature were varied. In the second stage, samples were heated to 180 °C for a secondary post-cure. These samples were compared to two baseline samples produced using the manufacturer's recommended cure cycle of 180 °C, and a modified isothermal cure at a lower cure temperature of 140 °C. The results show that the semi-curing path has no statistically significant influence on the mode I fracture toughness of the material studied here. Sample similarity was confirmed through SEM examination of the fracture surface, which showed minimal variation in surface topography. These findings open new possibilities to use this type of material for novel manufacturing processes involving semi-curing steps.

Do effervescent vitamin tablets affect the surface roughness, microhardness, and color of human enamel and contemporary composite resins?

To compare the impact of four effervescent vitamin tablets on the surface roughness, microhardness, and color of human enamel and contemporary composite resins. Sixty enamel and a total of 240 anterior (Gradia Direct Anterior), posterior (Gradia Direct Posterior), and universal composite resin (Filtek Ultimate) specimens (n = 60 per group) were fabricated. Each group was subdivided into five subgroups (n = 12, per subgroup). The specimens were subsequently immersed in YOUPLUS,Redoxon, Sunlife Immuvit, and Sambucol effervescent vitamin solutions for 2 min per day over 30 days. Distilled water was used as control. Subsequently, surface roughness (Ra) was detected using a profilometer, and microhardness (VHN) was measured using a microhardness tester. A spectrophotometer device was used to record the L,a,b color coordinates of the specimens after 24 h, 7 days, and 30 days, and the color changes (ΔE00) of the groups were calculated. The data were analyzed by ANOVA, two-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Levene's, and Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) tests (p<0.05). SEM analysis was conducted on one randomly selected specimen per group (×1000). In terms of surface roughness, materialXvitamin interactions were found significant (p<0.05). The increase in Ra from 24 h to 30 days was found significant (p<0.05) except for Gradia Direct Anterior X Redoxon, Sunlife Immuvit and Sambucol, Filtek Ultimate X Sunlife Immuvit and Sambucol, and all control groups. Ra changes were also concluded by SEM. Regarding VHNs, material X vitamin interactions were significant (p<0.005), except for all Filtek Ultimate subgroups. The changes in VHNs of the groups from 24 h to 30 days were significant for all enamel and Gradia Direct Anterior X YOUPLUS, Gradia Posterior X YOUPLUS, Sunlife Immuvit, and Sambucol groups (p < 0.05). In terms of ΔE00, significant differences were observed between the 7 days and 30 days in the enamel (p = 0.047), Gradia Direct Anterior (p = 0.019), and Gradia Direct Posterior groups (p = 0.038). Daily consumption of effervescent vitamin tablets can increase surface roughness, decrease microhardness, and influence the color of human enamel and contemporary anterior, posterior, and universal composite resins after a 30-day period.

Wettability of Heat Cured Acrylic Resin Interlaciated With Recycled Poly Methyl Methacrylate: An In Vitro Study

Abstract Aim: This study was conducted to improve the wettability of heat cured acrylic resin by the incorporation of recycled poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) as well as the assessment of how different aging times affected it. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 heat cured resin specimens were prepared and randomly divided into: The study and the control groups. Recycled PMMA was added to the study group at 1%, 3%, and 5% concentrations by volume. The wettability of control and study group specimens was assessed after being aged for different aging times by the assessment of wetting angle utilizing a sessile drop method and Image J analysis software. The collected data were analyzed statistically using IBM® Statistical Package for Social Sciences software (Armonk, NY, USA) version 23. Shapiro–Wilk, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey’s post hoc tests were employed for the statistical analysis at P ≤ 0.05. Results: The addition of recycled PMMA significantly improves the wettability of acrylic resin (P ≤ 0.05). The aging process had a significant impact on the wettability of control and study groups. The wettability of control and study groups increased with aging and this increase was directly associated with the aging time till 1 year of aging, their wettability started to decline although it remained less than that after 1 month of aging. Conclusion: It has been concluded that the incorporation of recycled PMMA significantly improves the wettability heat cured acrylic resin. The wettability of the aged control and study group was significantly affected by aging times.

Effect of the Application Procedure on The Bond Strength of Universal Adhesive in Restoration Repair

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of reduced application time on the bond strength of a universal adhesive used for the repair of hybrid ceramic and composite resin restorations. Methods: In the study, a total of 48 rectangular prisms of sizes 7×6×2 mm hybrid ceramic (Vita Enamic, Zahnfabrik, Germany) and composite resin (Solare X, GC, Japan) specimens were prepared. All samples were aged with 5000 thermal cycles. Then, the upper surfaces of the samples were roughened with a diamond fissure bur (10–36µ, 852 FG Meisinger; Hager &amp;amp; Meisinger GmbH, Germany) with 5 strokes under water cooling. The samples were divided into 2 subgroups according to the different application times of the adhesive system (G-Premio Bond, GC, Japan) (n=12). Then, composite resin (Solare X, GC) was placed using plastic cylinder molds with 3 mm inner diameter and height and cured with light for 20 seconds. All samples were thermal aged and then a shear bond strength test was conducted. The data were analyzed with Two-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey HSD tests (p˂0,05). Results: Two-way ANOVA revealed that the repair bond strength of the 10 seconds of waiting was significantly higher than the quick application for both hybrid ceramic and composite resin (p˂0,05). It was determined that there was no significant difference between hybrid ceramic and composite resin in the both quick application group and 10 seconds waiting group (p˃0,05). Conclusion: Quick application procedure showed lower shear bond strength than 10 seconds waiting group for the repair of both composite resin and hybrid ceramic (p&amp;lt;0,05). Keywords: Quick application, Application time, Universal adhesive, restoration repair..

Synthesis and evaluation of fluorescent resins with europium-β-diketonate complex for orthodontic use.

No effective technique exists for removing adhesive remnants following bracket debonding. We propose that fluorescence imaging using europium ions (Eu3+) offers an effective solution for minimizing iatrogenic enamel damage. This study aimed to assess the impact of different mixing ratios of monomer mixtures on the photoluminescence and flexural properties of a newly developed fluorescent adhesive. Four monomer blends with varying urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) to triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) ratios were prepared and polymerized. The blends contained 0.1 wt% of tris(1,3-diphenyl-1,3-propanedionato)(1,10-phenanthroline) Eu(III), [Eu(DBM)3Phen], as the phosphor. Optical measurements and flexural tests were conducted for each resin specimen. The emission spectra exhibited narrow bands corresponding to the 4f-4f transitions of the Eu3+ ions. The photoluminescence properties remained unaffected by the mixing ratio, whereas the mechanical properties tended to improve with higher UDMA content. We conclude that the Eu(DBM)3Phen-containing resin shows promise as a fluorescent orthodontic adhesive that contributes to preserving enamel health.

Evaluation of Surface Roughness of Acrylic Denture Bases Polished Using Algishine, a Novel Polishing Material: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Surface roughness (Ra) significantly impacts the aesthetic and functional qualities of dental prosthetics. Traditional polishing involves pumice, a material routinely used in dental practice. This study introduces Algishine as a potential cost-effective eco-friendly alternative. Materials and methods A 3D design software (Geomagic) created a Standard Tesselation Language (STL) file of 10 mm x 10 mm x 2 mm. 30 STL file outputs were generated. The output was milled in wax. This was then flasked and processed. 30 acrylic resin specimens were fabricated and divided into two groups. Group A was polished using traditional pumice, and Group B was polished using Algishine. The Ra of each sample was measured using surface profilometry, with three readings per sample averaged for each group. Results Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to compare the two groups with the pre-testing samples, which showed p<0.05; indicating that there was a significant difference between the two groups. The average Ra value for unpolished acrylic was 7.105, while the specimens polished with pumice showed an Ra value of 2.218; specimens polished with novel materialAlgishine showed an Ra value of 1.743. This illustrates that Algishine achieves surface smoothness significantly superior to commonly used polishing agent andpumice. Discussion The results of our study demonstrate that Algishine, a novel polishing material derived from recycled alginate, effectively reduces the Ra of acrylic resin. This finding has significant implications, both clinically and environmentally. The primary clinical benefit of a smoother acrylic resin surface is the enhanced aesthetic appearance and increased patient comfort. A polished surface reduces plaque accumulation, thereby decreasing the risk of oral infections and improving the longevity of the dental prosthesis. The results show that Algishine achieves surface smoothness comparable to or better than pumice indicating that it can maintain, if not enhance, these clinical outcomes. Dental professionals can confidently use Algishine, knowing it meets the high standards required for patient care. Conclusion Algishine effectively reduces the Ra of acrylic resin, suggesting it is a viable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional pumice for dental polishing procedures. This indicates potential benefits in maintaining clinical outcomes while promoting environmental sustainability.

Effect of repeated preheating on color stability of three types of composite resins and a giomer: An in vitro study.

This study assessed the effect of repeated preheating of three types of composite resins and a giomer on their color stability. In this in vitro study, 128 composite resin and giomer specimens with a 10-mm diameter and a 2-mm height were evaluated in eight groups (n=16) of Heliomolar microfilled, Brilliant Enamel microhybrid, and Tetric N-Ceram nanohybrid composite resins, and Beautifil II giomer used at room temperature and also after preheating of the tube in a water bath at 55‒60 °C for 40 times. After preparing the specimens, their color parameters were measured by a spectrophotometer. The specimens were immersed in a tea solution for 3 hours/day for 40 days and underwent spectrophotometric color assessment again. The color change (∆E) was calculated and analyzed by two-way ANOVA (α=0.05). The effects of composite resin type (P<0.001) and preheating (P<0.001) and their interaction effect (P<0.001) were significant on ∆E. Immersion in a tea solution caused a significantly greater color change in giomer (P<0.05). The ∆E of the microfilled composite resin was significantly higher than that of nanohybrid (P=0.003) and microhybrid composite resin (P=0.004). Repeated preheating of giomer, microhybrid, and nanohybrid composite resin specimens to 55‒60 °C for 40 times adversely affected their color stability in the tea solution. The color change was significantly greater for giomer.

Effect of Graphene Oxide Incorporation on the Strength of Denture Repair Resin

To evaluate the effect of incorporating graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO NPs) and graphene sheets on the flexural strength of an auto-polymerized (AP) acrylic resin-repaired denture. 60 heat-activated (HA) resin specimens were fabricated and randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 10). The specimens in Group I were kept intact. 50 specimens were cut into two parts with a 45-degree bevel. Group II specimens were repaired with AP resin and Group III specimens were repaired with HA resin. In the repair of Group IV, Group V, and Group VI specimens, 1%, 2% GO NPs, and graphene sheets were added to AP resin, respectively. A 3-point bending test with a universal test device measured the flexural strength. Statistical analyses of the results were performed with the Kruskal Wallis H-test. (α = 0.05) The flexural strength of Group I (130.05 ± 20.20 MPa) was the highest among all groups. The flexural strength of Group IV (67.49 ± 12.70 MPa) was significantly higher than Group V (50.87 ± 15.02 MPa) and Group VI (44.77 ± 10.70 MPa). The lowest strength value was obtained in Group VI. Adding 1% GO NPs to AP acrylic resins increases flexural strength. However, the increase in nanoparticle concentration and the addition of graphene sheets negatively affect strength.

Influence of different printing orientations and post-polymerization time on the translucency of three-dimensional (3D) printed denture base resins.

To evaluate the effect of different printing orientations and post-polymerization time with thermal cycling on the translucency of 3D-printed denture base resins. Heat-polymerized (HP) acrylic resin specimens were fabricated and 3D-printed denture base materials (NextDent, ASIGA, FormLabs) were printed with different printing orientations (0, 45, 90 degrees) and subjected to different post-polymerization times (15-, 30-, 60-, and 90-min). All specimens were polished and immersed in distilled water for 1day at 37°C. CIEDE2000 was used to measure the translucency parameters (TP00) before and after thermal cycling (5000 cycles) recording the color parameters (L*, a*, b*) against a black and white background using a spectrophotometer. k-factors ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey's test (α=.05) was performed for statistical analysis. The k-factors ANOVA test showed a significant effect of resin material, post-polymerization time, and printing orientation on translucency (p<0.001). In comparison to HP, all 3D-printed resins showed lower translucency with all post-polymerization times and printing orientation (p<0.001) except FormLabs resin (p>0.05). For all 3D-printed resins, the translucency increased, with increasing the post-polymerization time (p<0.001) and 60- and 90-min showed the highest translucency. For printing orientation, 90 and 45 degrees significantly showed high translucency in comparison to 0 degrees (p<0.001). FormLabs showed significantly higher translucency when compared with NextDent and ASIGA per respective printing orientation and post-polymerization time. The translucency significantly decreased after thermal cycling for all tested resins (p<0.001). The findings of this study demonstrated that the translucency of 3D-printed resins is influenced by the printing orientation, post-polymerization time, and resin type. As a result, choosing a resin type, and printing orientation, with a longer post-polymerization time should be considered since it may improve the esthetic appearance of the 3D-printed resins.

Antimicrobial Properties of Aloe vera Ethanol Extract as a Denture Disinfectant: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of an ethanolic extract of Aloe vera on Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and methods A total of 42 heat-cured acrylic resin specimens were made and divided into three groups according to the disinfection method: (1) Corega disinfectant tablets; (2) ethanol extract of Aloe vera; and (3) distilled water (as a control group). Fresh Aloe vera whole leaves were washed with distilled water, chopped into small pieces, air-dried, and ground into powder. The powder was extracted with 95% ethanol. The acrylic specimens were contaminated with C. albicans and S. aureus, and then the specimens were immersed in study solutions for three minutes. The viable colonies were counted using the colony-forming units (CFU) method. Results The results showed a decrease in the number of C. albicans CFU for denture tablets and Aloe vera ethanoic extract groups compared to the negative control group. There were no significant statistical differences between the denture tablet group and the Aloe vera ethanolic extract group (P < 0.05). Aloe vera ethanolic extract groups significantly decreased the number of S. aureus CFU compared to the negative control group and less compared to the denture tablet, where significant statistical differences were found between the tablet group and the Aloe vera ethanolic extract group. Conclusions Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that Aloe vera extract was effective against C. albicans and S. aureus when acrylic resin specimens were immersed for three minutes.

Effect of beverages, denture cleanser and chlorhexidine gluconate on surface roughness of flexible denture base material: an in vitro study.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate and compare the effect of beverages, denture cleanser and chlorhexidine gluconate solution on surface roughness of flexible denture base material. Fifty flexible denture base resin specimens measuring 50±1mm in diameter and 0.5±0.05 mm in thickness were fabricated. The specimens were divided into five groups each containing ten specimens. The specimens were immersed in distilled water (Control group A); hot coffee (Group B); cold beverage (Group C); sodium perborate containing denture cleanser (Group D) and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate solution (Group E). The specimens were immersed for 10 min daily in mentioned solutions for up to 60 days. Surface roughness (Ra) was evaluated on the 1st, 20th and 60th day with the help of atomic force microscope. The statistical analysis was done using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's Post hoc test. The two- way ANOVA revealed that the average Ra values varied significantly depending on the type of solution used for immersion (p<0.001) and the duration of immersion (p<0.001). Variation in surface roughness with cold beverage was highest (p=0.001). On the 60th day the surface roughness of flexible denture base resin material was higher with cold beverage (0.184 μm) and denture cleanser (0.203 μm) than that of distilled water (0.052 μm) hot coffee (0.030 μm) and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (0.068 μm). Exposure to cold beverage, which was acidic in nature and peroxide containing denture cleanser, produces much rougher surface in the thermoplastic polyamide flexible denture base resin specimens.