Effect of the curing cycle on residual monomer levels of acrylic resin denture base polymers

Cytotoxicity of dental self-curing resin for a temporary crown: an in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Residual monomer tests using high-performance liquid chromatography and cytotoxicity tests were performed to analyze the effect on the oral mucosa of a self-curing resin for provisional crown production.

METHODS

A cytotoxicity test was performed to confirm whether leaked residual monomers directly affected oral mucosal cells. The cytotoxicity of the liquid and solid resin polymers was measured using a water-soluble tetrazolium (WST) test and microplate reader.

RESULTS

In the WST assay using a microplate reader, 73.4% of the cells survived at a concentration of 0.2% liquid resin polymer. The cytotoxicity of the liquid resin polymer was low at ≤0.2%. For the solid resins, when 100% of the eluate was used from each specimen, the average cell viability was 91.3% for the solid resin polymer and 100% for the hand-mixed self-curing resin, which is higher than the cell viability standard of 70%. The cytotoxicity of the solid resin polymer was low.

CONCLUSION

Because the polymerization process of the self-curing resin may have harmful effects on the oral mucosa during the second and third stages, the solid resin should be manufactured indirectly using a dental model.

Evaluation of Impact Strength and Flexural Strength of Polyether Ether Ketone vs. Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Polymethyl Methacrylate Denture Base Materials: An In-Vitro Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective is to comparatively assess the impact strength and flexural strength of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) vs. computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) polymethyl methacrylate denture base material.

METHODS

A total of 90 samples were fabricated with traditional heat cure PMMA, PEEK, and CAD/CAM PMMA and divided into three groups of 30 samples each. The impact strength of all the samples was measured using an Izod impact tester with a pendulum in the air at 23±2°C. A three-point bending test was used in a Universal Testing Machine to assess the flexural strength of all the samples. The impact strength and flexural strength mean values were computed using a one-way ANOVA test.

RESULT

Impact strength and flexural strength of PEEK (IS=10.22±1.25 kJ/m2 and FS=120±8.0 MPa) is almost identical to CAD/CAM PMMA sample (IS=9.595±3.313 kJ/m2 and FS=118.11±5.00 MPa) whereas for conventional heat cure PMMA (IS=4.00±.011 kJ/m2 and FS=75.4±4.50 MPa) the values are least among the three.

CONCLUSION

 PEEK or CAD/CAM PMMA share almost identical and superior mechanical properties, and both can be used as better alternatives for complete denture fabrication rather than using conventional heat cure PMMA.

Influence of Three Different Denture Cleansers on Surface Roughness and Strength of Heat-polymerizing Resin: An In Vitro Study

AIM

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the impact of three different denture cleansers on the strength and surface roughness of heat-polymerizing resin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 120 resin discs (10 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick) were created using a stainless steel mold for surface roughness testing and flexural strength testing (in accordance with the American Dental Association (ADA) Specification No.12). Samples were divided into one of three groups (40 samples in each group): group I: Clanden, group II: Clinsodent, group III: Fittydent. Samples were immersed in denture-cleansing solutions for 30 minutes every day, and this process was repeated over a period of 15 days. Samples were stored in distilled water at room temperature in between the immersions. A surface analyzer was utilized to compare the surface roughness of each sample before and after immersion treatments. For recording flexural strength, each sample was subjected to three-point bending test by mounting samples on Universal testing machine. Comparing mean values between groups using one-way ANOVA and the Tukeys honest significant difference (HSD) post hoc test. A significance level of 0.05 was used for all statistical calculations Results: After 15 days, the maximum change of mean surface roughness of heat-polymerizing resin was found in Clanden denture cleanser group (2.64 ± 0.12) followed by Clinsodent group (2.26 ± 0.09) and Fittydent group (1.92 ± 0.06). After 15 days, the maximum change of mean flexural strength changes of heat-polymerizing resin was found in Clanden denture cleanser group (94.78 ± 0.14), followed by Fittydent group (98.64 ± 0.03) and Clinsodent group (99.26 ± 0.21).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitation, the current study concluded that changes were observed in surface roughness and flexural strength of all heat-polymerizing resin samples after immersion in all three denture cleansers; but least surface roughness and flexural strength changes were observed with the Fittydent cleanser group and Clinsodent group, respectively.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Cleaning dentures is crucial for maintaining both the prosthesis and oral health; therefore, it is necessary to select a cleanser that is effective without negatively affecting the base resin's qualities over time.

The Use of Acrylate Polymers in Dentistry

The manuscript aimed to review the types of acrylate polymers used in dentistry, as well as their chemical, physical, mechanical, and biological properties. Regarding their consistency and purpose, dental acrylate polymers are divided into hard (brittle), which includes acrylates for the production of plate denture bases, obturator prostheses, epitheses and maxillofacial prostheses, their repairs and lining, and soft (flexible), which are used for lining denture bases in special indications. Concerning the composition and method of polymerization initiation, polymers for the production of denture bases are divided into four types: heat-, cold-, light-, and microwave-polymerized. CAD/CAM acrylate dentures are made from factory blocks of dental acrylates and show optimal mechanical and physical properties, undoubtedly better monomer polymerization and thus biocompatibility, and stability of the shape and colour of the base and dentures. Regardless of the number of advantages that these polymers have to offer, they also exhibit certain disadvantages. Technological development enables the enhancement of all acrylate properties to respond better to the demands of the profession. Special attention should be paid to improving the biological characteristics of acrylate polymers, due to reported adverse reactions of patients and dental staff to potentially toxic substances released during their preparation and use.

The effect of cooling procedures on monomer elution from heat-cured polymethyl methacrylate denture base materials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the amount of methyl methacrylate (MMA) released in water from heat-cured polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base materials subjected to different cooling procedures.

METHODOLOGY

Disk-shaped specimens (Ø:17 mm, h:2 mm) were fabricated from Paladon 65 (PA), ProBase Hot (PB), Stellon QC-20 (QC) and Vertex Rapid Simplified (VE) denture materials using five different cooling procedures (n=3/procedure): A) Bench-cooling for 10 min and then under running water for 15 min; B) Cooling in water-bath until room temperature; C) Cooling under running water for 15 min; D) Bench-cooling, and E) Bench-cooling for 30 min and under running water for 15 min. A, B, D, E procedures were proposed by the manufacturers, while the C was selected as the fastest one. Control specimens (n=3/material) were fabricated using a long polymerization cycle and bench-cooling. After deflasking, the specimens were ground, polished and stored in individual containers with 10 ml of distilled water for seven days (37oC). The amount of water-eluted MMA was measured per container using isocratic ultra-fast liquid chromatography (UFLC). Data were analyzed using Student's and Welch's t-test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

MMA values below the lower quantification limit (LoQ=5.9 ppm) were registered in B, C, E (PA); E (PB) and B, D, E (QC) procedures, whereas values below the detection limit (LoD=1.96 ppm) were registered in A, D (PA); A, B, C, D (PB); C, D, E (VE) and in all specimens of the control group. A, B (VE) and A, C (QC) procedures yielded values ranging from 6.4 to 13.2 ppm with insignificant differences in material and procedure factors (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The cooling procedures may affect the monomer elution from denture base materials. The Ε procedure may be considered a universal cooling procedure compared to the ones proposed by the manufacturers, with the lowest residual monomer elution in water.

Flexural Properties, Impact Strength, and Hardness of Nanodiamond-Modified PMMA Denture Base Resin

Purpose. Investigate the effect of low nanodiamond (ND) addition and autoclave polymerization on the flexural strength, impact strength, and hardness of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) denture base. Methods. A total of 240 heat polymerized PMMA were fabricated with low ND concentrations of 0.1%, 0.25%, and 0.5%, and unmodified as control. The specimens were divided equally into group I: conventionally polymerized PMMA by water bath and group II: polymerized by the autoclave. The impact strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus were tested using the Charpy-type impact-testing machine and three-point bending test, respectively. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to analyze the fractured surfaces. Surface hardness was measured by a hardness tester with a Vickers diamond. The bonding and interaction between the PMMA and ND particles were analyzed by the Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscope. ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test were used for data analysis (α = 0.05). Results. ND addition significantly increased the flexural strength of groups I and II ( $p<0.001$ , $p=0.003$ ); it was highest (128.8 MPa) at 0.25% ND concentration for group I and at 0.1% for group II. Elastic modulus increased at 0.1% ND for both groups ( $p=0.004$ , $p=0.373$ ), but the increase was statistically significant for group I only. Impact strength showed no significant change with the addition of ND in groups I and II ( $p=0.227$ , $p=0.273$ ), as well as surface hardness in group I ( $p=0.143$ ). Hardness decreased significantly with 0.25%ND in group II. Conclusion. The addition of ND at low concentration increased the elastic modulus and flexural strength of conventionally and autoclave polymerized denture base resin. Autoclave polymerization significantly increased the flexural strength, impact strength, and hardness of unmodified PMMA and hardness of 0.5% ND group.

Elution behavior of a 3D-printed, milled and conventional resin-based occlusal splint material

OBJECTIVE

The elution of unpolymerized (co-)monomers and additives from methacrylic resin-based materials like polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) can cause adverse side effects, such as mutagenicity, teratogenicity, genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and estrogenic activity. The aim of this study was to quantify the release and the cytotoxicity of residual (co-)monomers and additives from PMMA-based splint materials under consideration of real splint sizes. Three different materials used for additive (3D printing), subtractive (milling) and conventional (powder and liquid) manufacturing were examined.

METHODS

The splint materials SHERAprint-ortho plus (additive), SHERAeco-disc PM20 (subtractive) and SHERAORTHOMER (conventional) were analysed. 16 (n = 4) sample discs of each material (6 mm diameter and 2 mm height) were polished on the circular and one cross-section area and then eluted in both distilled water and methanol. The discs were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h or 72 h and subsequently analysed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for specifying and quantifying released compounds. XTT-based cell viability assays with human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) were performed for Tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate (THFMA), 1,4-Butylene glycol dimethacrylate (BDDMA) and Tripropylenglycol diacrylate (TPGDA). In order to project the disc size to actual splint sizes in a worst-case scenario, lower and upper jaw occlusal splints were designed and volumes and surfaces were measured.

RESULTS

For SHERAeco-disc PM20 and for SHERAORTHOMER no elution was determined in water. SHERAprint-ortho plus eluted the highest THFMA concentration of 7.47 μmol/l ±2,77 μmol/l after 72 h in water. Six (co-)monomers and five additives were detected in the methanol eluates of all three materials tested. The XTT-based cell viability assays resulted in a EC₅₀ of 3006 ± 408 μmol/l for THFMA, 2569.5 ± 308 μmol/l for BDDMA and 596.7 ± 88 μmol/l for TPGDA.

SIGNIFICANCE

With the solvent methanol, released components from the investigated splint materials exceeded cytotoxic concentrations in HGFs calculated for a worst-case scenario in splint size. In the water eluates only the methacrylate THFMA could be determined from SHERAprint-ortho plus in concentrations below cytotoxic levels in HGFs.

Prosthodontic Applications of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA): An Update

A wide range of polymers are commonly used for various applications in prosthodontics. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is commonly used for prosthetic dental applications, including the fabrication of artificial teeth, denture bases, dentures, obturators, orthodontic retainers, temporary or provisional crowns, and for the repair of dental prostheses. Additional dental applications of PMMA include occlusal splints, printed or milled casts, dies for treatment planning, and the embedding of tooth specimens for research purposes. The unique properties of PMMA, such as its low density, aesthetics, cost-effectiveness, ease of manipulation, and tailorable physical and mechanical properties, make it a suitable and popular biomaterial for these dental applications. To further improve the properties (thermal properties, water sorption, solubility, impact strength, flexural strength) of PMMA, several chemical modifications and mechanical reinforcement techniques using various types of fibers, nanoparticles, and nanotubes have been reported recently. The present article comprehensively reviews various aspects and properties of PMMA biomaterials, mainly for prosthodontic applications. In addition, recent updates and modifications to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of PMMA are also discussed.

Comparison of Bond Strength of Acrylic, Composite, and Nanocomposite Artificial Teeth to Heat-Cure Acrylic Denture Base Resin

Objectives:

The present study aimed to evaluate the bond strength of heat-cure denture base resin to newly designed Iranian artificial acrylic teeth.

Materials and Methods:

In this in-vitro experimental study, shear bond strengths of Ivoclar acrylic, Apple composite, and B-Star nanocomposite teeth to heat-cure acrylic denture base resin were compared. A total of 18 samples were selected from each group of teeth. The samples were attached to heat-cure resin according to ISO 10477 standard. For the assessment of bond strength, the samples were placed in a universal testing machine and were subjected to shear forces at a speed of 1 mm/minute to record the fracture load. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, and standard deviation, were calculated using SPSS 20 software. Two-way analysis of variance was used to compare the shear bond strength of the groups with and without monomers and the studied artificial teeth.

Results:

The mean shear bond strengths of Ivoclar acrylic teeth were 392.22±23.76 MPa and 337.11±32.18 MPa with and without adding monomers to the tooth surface, respectively. The mean shear bond strengths were 250.44±29.84 MPa and 238.33±27.28 MPa (without monomers) and 438.33±24.16 MPa and 311.56±32.78 MPa (with monomers) for Apple composite and B-Star nanocomposite artificial teeth, respectively.

Conclusion:

The greatest shear bond strength was attributed to Ivoclar acrylic teeth followed by Apple composite and B-Star nanocomposite artificial teeth. Addition of monomers to the tooth surface significantly strengthened the shear bonding of acrylic base resin to the teeth.

Effect of polymerization technique and glass fiber addition on the surface roughness and hardness of PMMA denture base material

The current study evaluated the effects of autoclave polymerization both with and without glass fiber (GF) reinforcement on the surface roughness and hardness of acrylic denture base material. Ninety disc specimens (30×2.5 mm) were prepared from Vertex resin and divided according to polymerization techniques into a water bath, short and long autoclave polymerization groups. Tested groups were divided into three subgroups according to the GF concentration (0, 2.5, and 5 wt%). Profilometer and Vickers hardness tests were performed to measure surface roughness and hardness. ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer multiple comparison tests analyzed the results, and p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Autoclave polymerization significantly decreased the surface roughness and increased the hardness of acrylic resin without GF reinforcement (p<0.05). However, 5 wt% GF addition significantly increased surface roughness and decreased hardness of the autoclave polymerized denture base resin (p<0.05). Surface properties of Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base material improved with autoclave polymerization and negatively affected with GFs addition.

Long-term microwaving of denture base materials: effects on dimensional, color and translucency stability

While the combined effect of microwave irradiation with cleansing solutions on denture base materials has been investigated, the effects of only using microwave irradiation and, more importantly, in a long-term basis, was not studied yet.

The Effect of Repeated Microwaving Disinfection on the Dimensional Stability of Acrylic Dentures

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of repeated microwave disinfections on the dimensional stability of acrylic dentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three groups of dentures made of a heat polymerized acrylic resin were tested. I: dentures kept in water (control group). II: dentures microwaved daily while being immersed into water (wet disinfection). III: dentures microwaved daily without being immersed into water (dry disinfection).
Measurements were taken across three reference points, on two occasions: after curing and immersion in water for 24 hours, and one week later.
Data obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe's multiple range test.

RESULTS

The results showed that the microwave disinfection provokes dimensional changes of the same pattern (shrinkage). The dentures which underwent wet disinfection exhibited the greatest shrinkage (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Disinfection using microwave energy may cause dimensional changes (shrinkage) of complete dentures.
The microwave "dry disinfection" method can be safely applied in everyday practice since the dimensional changes which occurred seem to be of no clinical significance.

Allergic effects of the residual monomer used in denture base acrylic resins

Denture base resins are extensively used in dentistry for a variety of purposes. These materials can be classified as chemical, heat, light, and microwave polymerization materials depending upon the factor which starts the polymerization reaction. Their applications include use during denture base construction, relining existing dentures, and for fabrication of orthodontic removable appliances. There have been increased concerns regarding the safe clinical application of these materials as their biodegradation in the oral environment leads to harmful effects. Along with local side effects, the materials have certain occupational hazards, and numerous studies can be found in the literature mentioning those. The purpose of this article is to outline the cytotoxic consequences of denture base acrylic resins and clinical recommendations for their use.

Mechanical and biological properties of acrylic resins manipulated and polished by different methods

This study evaluated the influence of the manipulation technique and polishing method on the flexural strength and cytotoxicity of acrylic resins. Two manipulation techniques and three polishing methods were used in the fabrication of acrylic plates that were divided into 6 groups (n=10). Groups MM, MC and MW: mass technique with mechanical polishing, chemical polishing and without polishing, respectively; and Groups SM, SC and SW: Saturation technique with mechanical polishing, chemical polishing and without polishing, respectively). Flexural strength was tested in a universal testing machine and the cytotoxicity assay used cell cultures (L-929) for periods of 24 h to 168 h. Flexural strength and cytotoxicity data were assessed using two-way and three-way ANOVA, respectively (α=0.05), followed by post hoc Bonferroni test for multiple comparisons. The effect of combinations of manipulation techniques and polishing methods on flexural strength showed significant differences only between Group SC and Groups MW, MM and MC (p<0.01). Cell viability ranged from 51% (3.9%) to 87,6% (3.2) in the 24-h time interval, and from 87.8% (5.0) to 95.7% (3.1%) in the 168-h time interval. With the increase of cell viability, from the third day (72 h), there was no significant difference among the groups, except between MM and SC (p<0.01) at 72 h. In conclusion, the manipulation technique and polishing method had more influence on the cytotoxicity than on flexural strength.

The Effect of Microwave Disinfection on Denture Base Polymers, Liners and Teeth: A Basic Overview

The aim of this paper was to overview the current scientific knowledge concerning the effect of microwave disinfection on denture related material properties. Cross-infection control in dentistry is a significant issue in everyday clinical practice due to the recent increase in some infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, C and AIDS and therefore numerous methods of disinfection have been used. The most widespread method of disinfection used in everyday practice is chemical, however, studies have suggested that chemical disinfectants alter the physical and mechanical properties of the acrylic resins and enable the growth and proliferation of certain bacteria. Therefore, microwaves were introduced as an easy to use-and-access, low cost, chemical free alternative. The question that arose was if and in what way the microwave irradiation affected the denture related material properties. Microwaving affects the denture resin bases, liners and teeth in different ways. The results showed that microwave disinfection could be a safe alternative for the disinfection of denture bases and liners compared to the chemical one, when the procedure is carried out in dry conditions, but could possibly cause dimensional changes of clinical significance on them when the irradiation takes place in wet environment. It also seems to have no detrimental effects of clinical importance on the flexural properties, impact strength and hardness of denture resins and the bond, flexural strength, porosity and hardness of denture liners. The effects of microwave disinfection on the hardness of denture teeth and teeth/denture bond strength are still controversial and no safe conclusions can be drawn.

Investigation of flexural strength and cytotoxicity of acrylic resin copolymers by using different polymerization methods

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to appraise the some mechanical properties of polymethyl methacrylate based denture base resin polymerized by copolymerization mechanism, and to investigate the cytotoxic effect of these copolymer resins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and isobutyl methacrylate (IBMA) were added to monomers of conventional heat polymerized and injection-molded poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin contents of 2%, 3%, and 5% by volume and polymerization was carried out. Three-point bending test was performed to detect flexural strength and the elasticity modulus of the resins. To determine the statistical differences between the study groups, the Kruskall-Wallis test was performed. Then pairwise comparisons were performed between significant groups by Mann-Whitney U test. Agar-overlay test was performed to determine cytotoxic effect of copolymer resins. Chemical analysis was determined by FTIR spectrum.

RESULTS

Synthesis of the copolymer was approved by FTIR spectroscopy. Within the conventional heat-polymerized group maximum transverse strength had been seen in the HEMA 2% concentration; however, when the concentration ratio increased, the strength decreased. In the injection-molded group, maximum transverse strength had been seen in the IBMA 2% concentration; also as the concentration ratio increased, the strength decreased. Only IBMA showed no cytotoxic effect at low concentrations when both two polymerization methods applied while HEMA showed cytotoxic effect in the injection-molded resins.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, it may be concluded that IBMA and HEMA may be used in low concentration and at high temperature to obtain non-cytotoxic and durable copolymer structure.

Flexural strength of acrylic resin denture bases processed by two different methods

Background and aims. The aim of this study was to compare flexural strength of specimens processed by conventional and injection-molding techniques.

Materials and methods. Conventional pressure-packed PMMA was used for conventional pressure-packed and injection-molded PMMA was used for injection-molding techniques. After processing, 15 specimens were stored in distilled water at room temperature until measured. Three-point flexural strength test was carried out. Statistical analysis was carried out by SPSS using t-test. Statistical significance was defined at P<0.05.

Results. Flexural strength of injection-polymerized acrylic resin specimens was higher than that of the conventional method (P=0.006). This difference was statistically significant (P=0.006).

Conclusion. Within the limitations of this study, flexural strength of acrylic resin specimens was influenced by the molding technique.

Effect of autoclave postpolymerization treatments on the fracture toughness of autopolymerizing dental acrylic resins

INTRODUCTION

Microwave and water bath postpolymerization have been suggested as methods to improve the mechanical properties of heat and autopolymerizing acrylic resins. However, the effects of autoclave heating on the fracture properties of autopolymerizing acrylic resins have not been investigated.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of various autoclave postpolymerization methods on the fracture properties of 3 different autopolymerizing acrylic resins.

METHODS

Forty-two specimens of 3 different autopolymerizing acrylic resins (Orthocryl, Paladent RR and Futurajet) were fabricated (40x8x4mm), and each group was further divided into 6 subgroups (n=7). Control group specimens remained as processed (Group 1). The first test group was postpolymerized in a cassette autoclave at 135°C for 6 minutes and the other groups were postpolymerized in a conventional autoclave at 130°C using different time settings (5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes). Fracture toughness was then measured with a three-point bending test. Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by the Duncan test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

The fracture toughness of Orthocryl and Paladent-RR acrylic resins significantly increased following conventional autoclave postpolymerization at 130°C for 10 minutes (P<.05). However, the fracture toughness of autoclave postpolymerized Futurajet was not significantly different than its control specimens (P<.05). The fracture toughness of Futurajet was significantly less than Paladent RR and Orthocryl specimens when autoclaved at 130°C for 10 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study, it can be suggested that autoclave postpolymerization is an effective method for increasing the fracture toughness of tested autoploymerized acrylic resins.

Evaluation of Vickers hardness of different types of acrylic denture base resins with and without glass fibre reinforcement

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the Vickers hardness of different acrylic resins for denture bases with and without the addition of glass fibres.

BACKGROUND

It has been suggested that different polymerisation methods, as well as the addition of glass fibre (FV) might improve the hardness of acrylic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five types of acrylic resin were tested: Vipi Wave (VW), microwave polymerisation; Vipi Flash (VF), auto-polymerisation; Lucitone (LT), QC20 (QC) and Vipi Cril (VC), conventional heat-polymerisation, all with or without glass fibre reinforcement (GFR) and distributed into 10 groups (n = 12). Specimens were then submitted to Vickers hardness testing with a 25-g load for 30 s. All data were submitted to anova and Tukey's HSD test.

RESULTS

A significant statistical difference was observed with regard to the polymerisation method and the GFR (p < 0.05). Without the GFR, the acrylic resin VC presented the highest hardness values, and VF and LT presented the lowest. In the presence of GFR, VC resin still presented the highest Vickers hardness values, and VF and QC presented the lowest.

CONCLUSIONS

The acrylic resin VC and VW presented higher hardness values than VF and QC resins. Moreover, GFR increased the Vickers hardness of resins VW, VC and LT.

Flexural strength of acrylic resins polymerized by different cycles

Despite the large number of studies addressing the effect of microwave polymerization on the properties of acrylic resin, this method has received limited clinical acceptance. This study evaluated the influence of microwave polymerization on the flexural strength of a denture base resin. A conventional heat-polymerized (Clássico), a microwave-polymerized (Onda-Cryl) and a autopolymerizing acrylic (Jet) resins were used. Five groups were established, according to polymerization cycles: A, B and C (Onda-Cryl, short cycle - 500W/3 min, long - 90W/13 min + 500W/90 sec, and manufacturing microwave cycle - 320W/3 min + 0W/3 min + 720W/3 min); T (Clássico, water bath cycle - 74 degrees C/9h) and Q (Jet, press chamber cycle - 50 degrees C/15 min at 2 bar). Ten specimens (65 x 10 x 3.3mm) were prepared for each cycle. The flexural strength of the five groups was measured using a three-point bending test at a cross-head speed of 5 mm/min. Flexural strength values were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and the Tukey's test was performed to identify the groups that were significantly different at 5% level. The microwave-polymerized groups showed the highest means (p<0.05) for flexural strength (MPa) (A = 106.97 +/- 5.31; B = 107.57 +/- 3.99; C = 109.63 +/- 5.19), and there were no significant differences among them. The heat-polymerized group (T) showed the lowest flexural strength means (84.40 +/- 1.68), and differ significantly from all groups. The specimens of a microwavable denture base resin could be polymerized by different microwave cycles without risk of decreasing the flexural strength.

Effect of post-polymerization heat treatments on the cytotoxicity of two denture base acrylic resins

INTRODUCTION

Most denture base acrylic resins have polymethylmethacrylate in their composition. Several authors have discussed the polymerization process involved in converting monomer into polymer because adequate polymerization is a crucial factor in optimizing the physical properties and biocompatibility of denture base acrylic resins. To ensure the safety of these materials, in vitro cytotoxicity assays have been developed as preliminary screening tests to evaluate material biocompatibility. (3)H-thymidine incorporation test, which measures the number of cells synthesizing DNA, is one of the biological assays suggested for cytotoxicity testing.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate, using (3)H-thymidine incorporation test, the effect of microwave and water-bath post-polymerization heat treatments on the cytotoxicity of two denture base acrylic resins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine disc-shaped specimens (10 x 1 mm) of each denture base resin (Lucitone 550 and QC 20) were prepared according to the manufacturers' recommendations and stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 48 h. The specimens were assigned to 3 groups: 1) post-polymerization in a microwave oven for 3 min at 500 W; 2) post-polymerization in water-bath at 55 degrees C for 60 min; and 3) without post-polymerization. For preparation of eluates, 3 discs were placed into a sterile glass vial with 9 mL of Eagle's medium and incubated at 37 degrees C for 24 h. The cytotoxic effect of the eluates was evaluated by (3)H-thymidine incorporation.

RESULTS

The results showed that the components leached from the resins were cytotoxic to L929 cells, except for the specimens heat treated in water bath (p<0.05). Compared to the group with no heat treatment, water-bath decreased the cytotoxicity of the denture base acrylic resins.

CONCLUSION

The in vitro cytotoxicity of the tested denture base materials was not influenced by microwave post-polymerization heat treatment.

In vitro comparison of the cytotoxicity of acetal resin, heat-polymerized resin, and auto-polymerized resin as denture base materials

This in vitro study aims to evaluate three different base materials (acetal, heat-polymerized, and auto-polymerized resins) on L-929 mouse fibroblast cells over 1 h-, 1-, 3-, 5-, 7-day periods. The hypothesis was that acetal resin would show higher cytotoxic effect than heat-polymerized and auto-polymerized acrylic resins, as it seems possible that residual formaldehyde might be leaching from the material into the cell culture medium. The samples were produced according to the manufacturer's protocol. Then they were placed in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium/Ham's F12 (DMEM/F12) for 1 h, 1, 3, 5, 7 days. After the incubation periods, cytotoxicity of the extracts to cultured fibroblasts (L-929) was measured by MTT assay. The degree of cytotoxicity of each sample was determined according to the reference value represented by the cells with a control. Statistical significance was determined by one-way ANOVA. Tukey and Tamhane tests were used as a post-hoc method to determine differences among the groups. Statistically significant difference was found among test groups at all time incubation periods (p = 0.000). The auto-polymerized resin performed higher cytotoxic effect than heat-polymerized resin and it was statistically significant at 1-day period (p < 0.05). The highest cytotoxic effect of acetal resin was observed at 5-day incubation period. In conclusion, the hypothesis was verified, since acetal resin showed more cytotoxic effect on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th days than heat- and auto-polymerized resins. Cell survival rates (% of control) of acetal resin were 58, 54, and 60%, respectively.

Effect of flask closure method and post-pressing time on the upper denture base adaptation

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of flask-closure methods, post-pressing times and acrylic resins on denture base adaptation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The resins were flasked using a hydraulic press and closed with the traditional clamp or RS system. Conventional heat-cure resin was polymerised immediately or at 6 h post-pressing at 74 degrees C for 9 h. Rapid cycle heat-cure resin was polymerised in boiling water for 20 min. After cooling, the bases were deflasked and the sets of cast-base transversally sectioned in the regions distal to the canine, mesial to the first molar and in the posterior palatal zone. The adaptation was measured with an optical microscope (0.0005 mm) at five reference points for each section. Data were analysed using anova and Tukey's test (alpha = 0.05).

RESULTS

Traditional clamp and immediate post-pressing time improved base adaptation for conventional heat-cure resin. Both post-pressing times showed most accurate base adaptation for conventional heat-cure resin when the traditional clamp was used. Immediate post-pressing time improved base adaptation for conventional heat-cure resin and the 6-h delay in time was significant for the rapid cycle heat-cure resin.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional clamp and immediate post-pressing time improved base adaptation for conventional heat-cure resin.

Influence of double flask investing and microwave heating on the superficial porosity, surface roughness, and knoop hardness of acrylic resin

PURPOSE

Simultaneous polymerization of maxillary and mandibular complete dentures with teeth in occlusion through investing in a double special flask has been described as a more rapid and efficient method to polymerize prostheses than the conventional method; however, no study has been done to verify important properties of resin, including superficial porosity, surface roughness, and hardness, when processed by this technique. The purpose of this study was to verify if the simultaneous polymerization associated with microwave heating may alter the superficial porosity, surface roughness, and Knoop hardness of acrylic resin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Resin specimens processed in single and double dental flasks were compared using microwave energy and warm water methods. Four groups were tested according to the investing flask and the method of resin cure: Group I control specimens (n = 15) were invested in single metal flasks and cured by warm water at 74 degrees C for 9 hours. Group II (n = 15) specimens were invested in single polyvinyl chloride flasks and cured by microwave energy at 90 W for 20 minutes plus 450 W for 5 minutes. Group III (n = 30) and Group IV (n = 30) specimens were processed by simultaneous polymerization in double flasks and cured by the same warm water and microwave energy protocols, respectively.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found in mean superficial porosity (8.06 +/- 2.28 pore/cm(2)), surface roughness (0.14 +/- 0.03 mum), or Knoop hardness (19.66 +/- 2.25 kgf/mm(2)) between the control group (GI), and the other three experimental groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Processing acrylic resin in a double flask heated by either warm water or microwave energy does not alter the resin's superficial porosity, surface roughness, or Knoop hardness; however, other properties of resin should be analyzed using this denture processing technique.

[Residual monomer content determination in some acrylic denture base materials and possibilities of its reduction]

BACKGROUND/AIM

Polymethyl methacrylate is used for producing a denture basis. It is a material made by the polymerization process of methyl methacrylate. Despite of the polymerization type, there is a certain amount of free methyl methacrylate (residual monomer) incorporated in the denture, which can cause irritation of the oral mucosa. The aim of this study was to determine the amount of residual monomer in four different denture base acrylic resins by liquid chromatography and the possibility of its reduction.

METHODS

After the polymerization, a postpolymerization treatment was performed in three different ways: in boiling water for thirty minutes, with 500 W microwaves for three minutes and in steam bath at 22 degrees C for one to thirty days.

RESULTS

The obtained results showed that the amount of residual monomer is significantly higher in cold polymerizing acrylates (9.1-11%). The amount of residual monomer after hot polymerization was in the tolerance range (0.59-0.86%).

CONCLUSION

The obtained results denote a low content of residual monomer in the samples which have undergone postpolymerization treatment. A lower percent of residual monomer is established in samples undergone a hot polymerization.

Effect of a post-polymerization treatments on the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of reline and acrylic denture base resins

This study evaluated the effect of water-bath and microwave post-polymerization treatments on the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of four autopolymerizing reline resins (Duraliner II-D, Kooliner-K, Tokuso Rebase Fast-TR and Ufi Gel Hard C-UGH) and one heat-polymerized acrylic resin (Lucitone 550-L), processed using two polymerization cycles (short cycle - 90 minutes at 73°C and 100°C for 30 minutes; and long cycle - 9 hours at 71°C). For each material, thirty specimens (64 x 10 x 3.3 mm) were made and divided into 3 groups (n=10). Specimens were tested after: processing (control group); water-bath at 55°C for 10 minutes (reline materials) or 60 minutes (L); and microwave irradiation. Flexural strength tests were performed at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min using a three-point bending device with a span of 50 mm. The flexural strengths values were calculated in MPa. One fragment of each specimen was submitted to Vickers hardness test. Data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD test (α=0.05). L microwaved specimens (short cycle) exhibited significantly higher flexural strength means than its respective control group (p<0.05). Water-bath promoted a significant increase (p<0.05) in flexural strength of K and L (long cycle). The hardness of the tested materials was not influenced by the post-polymerization treatments. Post-polymerization treatments could be used to improve the flexural strength of some materials tested.

Cytotoxicity of Two Autopolymerized Acrylic Resins Used in Orthodontics

Objective: To test in vitro the null hypothesis that the toxic effect of different acrylic resins used in orthodontics cannot be reduced when a prior elution is performed.

Materials and Methods: Three established cell lines were used (HeLa, NIH3T3, and Hep2) and cultured under standard conditions. Resin segments were immersed in a culture medium and left to elute for 24 and 48 hours. Cells were exposed to medium containing eluates for 24 or 48 hours. The 3-(4,5 dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2.5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used as the cytotoxicity test. Control cells contained standard medium with no eluate. Analysis of variance and Tukey test were used for statistical analysis.

Results: Fibroblastic viability was not affected when the elution time was 24 hours, but treatments showed higher cell viability than controls when the elution time was 48 hours. When left to elute for 24 hours, both resins had a cytotoxic effect on epithelial cells, but this effect was not observed when the elution time was 48 hours.

Conclusions: The hypothesis was rejected as both tested materials showed lower cytotoxic effect when treated with 48-hour elutes compared with 24-hour elutes, which indicates that a longer elution time reduces resin toxicity.

Influence of microwave disinfection on the dimensional stability of intact and relined acrylic resin denture bases

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Microwave irradiation has been suggested as a method to disinfect denture bases. However, the effect of microwave heating on the dimensional stability of the relined denture bases is unknown.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dimensional stability of intact and relined acrylic resin denture bases after microwave disinfection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A standard brass cast simulating an edentulous maxillary arch was machined and used to fabricate 2- and 4-mm-thick denture bases (n=200), which were processed with heat-polymerized acrylic resin (Lucitone 550). The 2-mm thick-specimens (n=160) were relined with 2 mm of autopolymerizing resin (Tokuso Rebase Fast, Ufi Gel Hard, Kooliner, or New Truliner). Distances between 5 removable pins on the standard brass cast were measured with a Nikon optical comparator, and the area (mm) formed by the distance between 5 pins was calculated and served as baseline. During fabrication, the pins were transferred to the intaglio surface of the specimens. Differences between the baseline area and those subsequently determined for the specimens were used to calculate the percent dimensional changes. The intact and relined denture bases were divided into 4 groups (n=10) and evaluated after: polymerization (control group P); 1 cycle of microwave disinfection (MW); daily microwave disinfection for 7 days (control group MW7); water storage for 7 days (WS7). Microwave irradiation was performed for 6 minutes at 650 W. Data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (alpha=.05).

RESULTS

Intact specimens and those relined with Kooliner and New Truliner showed increased shrinkage after 1 (P=.05, .018, and .001, respectively) and 7 (P <.001, .003, and <.001, respectively) cycles of microwave disinfection. With the exception of specimens relined with Kooliner, intact specimens showed greater shrinkage than the relined specimens after 7 cycles of microwave disinfection.

CONCLUSIONS

Microwave disinfection produced increased shrinkage of intact specimens and those relined with New Truliner and Kooliner.

Biocompatibility of denture base acrylic resins evaluated in culture of L929 cells. Effect of polymerisation cycle and post-polymerisation treatments

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of two post-polymerisation treatments and different cycles of polymerisation on the cytotoxicity of two denture base resins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The resins tested were Lucitone 550 and QC 20. Discs of resins were fabricated following the manufacturer's instructions. Lucitone 550 was processed by long cycle or short cycle. The resin QC 20 was processed by reverse cycle or normal cycle. The specimens were divided into groups: (i) post-polymerised in microwave for 3 min at 500 W; (ii) post-polymerised in water-bath at 55 degrees C for 60 min and (iii) without post-polymerisation. Eluates were prepared by placing three discs into a sterile glass vial with 9 ml of Eagle's medium and incubated at 37 degrees C for 24 hours. L929 cells were seeded into 96 well culture plates and DNA synthesis was assessed by (3)H-thymidine incorporation assay.

RESULTS

The results were submitted to two-way anova and Tukey HSD test. QC 20 specimens polymerised by the normal cycle and submitted to microwave post-polymerisation were graded as moderately cytotoxic. Similar results were observed for Lucitone 550 processed by long cycle without post-polymerisation. The other experimental groups were graded as not cytotoxic. After water-bath post-polymerisation, specimens of Lucitone 550 processed by long cycle produced significantly lower inhibition of DNA synthesis than the other groups.

CONCLUSION

The long cycle increased the cytotoxicity of Lucitone 550 and water-bath post-polymerisation reduced the cytotoxicity of Lucitone 550 processed by long cycle.

Residual monomer of reline acrylic resins

OBJECTIVES

This study compared the residual monomer (RM) in four hard chair-side reline resins (Duraliner II-D, Kooliner-K, Tokuso Rebase Fast-TRF and Ufi Gel hard-UGH) and one heat-polymerized denture base resin (Lucitone 550-L), which was processed using two polymerization cycles (short-LS and long-LL). It was also investigated the effect of two after polymerization treatments on this RM content.

METHODS

Specimens (n=18) of each material were produced following the manufacturers' instructions and then divided into three groups. Group I specimens were left untreated (GI-control). Specimens of group II (GII) were given post-polymerization treatment by microwave irradiation. In group III (GIII), specimens were submitted to immersion in water at 55 degrees C (reline resins-10 min; denture base resin L-60 min). The RM was analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and expressed as a percentage of RM. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (alpha=0.05).

RESULTS

Comparing control specimens, statistical differences were found among all materials (p<0.05), and the results can be arranged as K (1.52%)>D (0.85%)>UGH (0.45%)>LL (0.24%)>TRF (0.14%)>LS (0.08%). Immersion in hot water (GIII) promoted a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the RM for all materials evaluated compared to control (GI), with the exception of LL specimens. Materials K, UGH and TRF exhibited significantly (p<0.05) lower values of RM after microwave irradiation (GII) than in the control specimens.

SIGNIFICANCE

The reduction in RM promoted by water-bath and microwave post-polymerization treatments could improve the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the relining and denture base materials.

Bond strength of hard chairside reline resins to a rapid polymerizing denture base resin before and after thermal cycling

PURPOSE

This study assessed the shear bond strength of 4 hard chairside reline resins (Kooliner, Tokuso Rebase Fast, Duraliner II, Ufi Gel Hard) to a rapid polymerizing denture base resin (QC-20) processed using 2 polymerization cycles (A or B), before and after thermal cycling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cylinders (3.5 mm x 5.0 mm) of the reline resins were bonded to cylinders of QC-20 polymerized using cycle A (boiling water-20 minutes) or B (boiling water; remove heat-20 minutes; boiling water-20 minutes). For each reline resin/polymerization cycle combination, 10 specimens (groups CAt e CBt) were thermally cycled (5 and 55 degrees C; dwell time 30 seconds; 2,000 cycles); the other 10 were tested without thermal cycling (groups CAwt ad CBwt). Shear bond tests (0.5 mm/min) were performed on the specimens and the failure mode was assessed. Data were analyzed by 3-way ANOVA and Newman-Keuls post-hoc test (alpha=.05).

RESULTS

QC-20 resin demonstrated the lowest bond strengths among the reline materials (P<.05) and mainly failed cohesively. Overall, the bond strength of the hard chairside reline resins were similar (10.09+/-1.40 to 15.17+/-1.73 MPa) and most of the failures were adhesive/cohesive (mixed mode). However, Ufi Gel Hard bonded to QC-20 polymerized using cycle A and not thermally cycled showed the highest bond strength (P<.001). When Tokuso Rebase Fast and Duraliner II were bonded to QC-20 resin polymerized using cycle A, the bond strength was increased (P=.043) after thermal cycling.

CONCLUSIONS

QC-20 displayed the lowest bond strength values in all groups. In general, the bond strengths of the hard chairside reline resins were comparable and not affected by polymerization cycle of QC-20 resin and thermal cycling.

The effect of two fibre impregnation methods on the cytotoxicity of a glass and carbon fibre-reinforced acrylic resin denture base material on oral epithelial cells and fibroblasts

Acrylic resin dentures may have cytotoxic effects on oral soft tissues. However, there is sparse data about the cytotoxic effect of fibre-reinforced acrylic resin denture base materials. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effect of two fibre impregnation methods on the cytotoxicity of a glass and carbon fibre-reinforced heat-polymerized acrylic resin denture base material on oral epithelial cells and fibroblasts. One hundred acrylic resin discs were assigned to five experimental groups (n = 20). One of the groups did not include any fibre. Two groups consisted of silane and monomer treated glass fibres (Vetrolex) impregnated into acrylic resin (QC-20) discs. The other two groups consisted of silane and monomer treated carbon fibres (Type Tenox J, HTA). Untreated cell culture was used as positive control. The human oral epithelial cell line and buccal fibroblast cultures were exposed to test specimens. The cytotoxicity of the test materials was determined by succinic dehydrogenase activity (MTT method) after 24 and 72 h exposures. Data were analysed with a statistical software program (SPSSFW, 9.0). A one-way analysis of variance (anova) test and Bonferroni test were used for the comparisons between the groups. All statistical tests were performed at the 0.95 confidence level (P < 0.05). After 24 and 72 h incubation, cell viability percentages of all experimental groups showed significant decrease according to the positive control cell culture. Fibroblastic cell viability percentages of silane and monomer treated fibre-reinforced groups were lower than the unreinforced group. Cell viability of monomer-treated groups displayed the lowest percentages. Elapsed incubation time decreased epithelial cell viability in silane-treated groups. Fibroblastic cell viability was not influenced by elapsed time except the unreinforced group.

Effect of relining, water storage and cyclic loading on the flexural strength of a denture base acrylic resin

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effect of relining, water storage and cyclic loading on the ultimate flexural strength (FS(U)) and on the flexural strength at the proportional limit (FS(Pl)) of a denture base acrylic resin (Lucitone 550-L).

METHODS

Rectangular bars of L were made (64 mm x 10 mm x 2 mm) and relined (1.3mm) with four relining resins (Kooliner-K, Ufi Gel Hard-UGH, Tokuso Rebase Fast-TR and New Truliner-NT). In addition, specimens relined with L and intact L specimens were made (64 mm x 10 mm x 3.3 mm). A three-point flexural test was applied on the specimens (n=10) after (1) polymerization; (2) water storage (30 days); (3) cyclic loading (10,000 cycles at 5 Hz) and (4) water storage (30 days)+cyclic loading. Data (MPa) were analyzed with three-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD tests (alpha=0.05). To test for a possible correlation between FS(U) and FS(Pl), a linear regression coefficient "r" was calculated.

RESULTS

After water storage, L-UGH and L-TR demonstrated an increased FS(U) (41.49-50.64 MPa and 49.95-57.36 MPa, respectively) (P<0.05). Only L-TR demonstrated an increased FS(Pl) (20.58-24.21 MPa) after water storage (P<0.05). L-L had the highest FS(U) (between 78.57 and 85.09 MPa) and FS(Pl) (between 31.30 and 34.17 MPa) (P<0.05). The cyclic loading decreased the FS(U) and FS(Pl) of all materials (P<0.05). Regression analysis showed a strong linear correlation between the two variables (r=0.941).

CONCLUSIONS

Water storage improved the FS(U) of L-UGH and L-TR and the FS(Pl) of L-TR. L-L produced the highest FS(U) and FS(Pl). The FS(U) and FS(Pl) of all materials were detrimentally influenced by cyclic loading.

Allergy to auto-polymerized acrylic resin in an orthodontic patient

This article reports on a 60-year-old woman who had an allergic reaction to methylmethacrylate self-curing acrylic resin during orthodontic treatment. A localized hypersensitive reaction appeared on the palate after an orthodontic retainer was placed. Samples of the acrylic were removed and analyzed with gas chromatography to evaluate the residual monomer level. The residual monomer content was between 0.745% and 0.78%, which did not exceed international standards for this material. Patch tests were performed with several methylmethacrylate resin samples and processed with various techniques; they showed positive reactions. Despite the many alternative products available, self-curing acrylic resin remains widely used because of its low cost, ease of use, and diversity of indications. Orthodontists should be aware that allergic reactions can occur.

Influence of polymerization method, curing process, and length of time of storage in water on the residual methyl methacrylate content in dental acrylic resins

This study compared the influence of different polymerization methods (heat, auto-, and microwave energy), different curing processes (in the case of heat- and autopolymerized specimens), and length of storage of the polymerized specimens in distilled water at 37 degrees C on the residual methyl methacrylate (MMA) content in dental acrylic resin specimens. Residual MMA of 120 resin specimens were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. For the heat-polymerized resins, the lowest residual MMA content was obtained when they were given a long-term terminal boil and then stored in the distilled water for at least 1 day. For the autopolymerized resins, the lowest residual MMA content was obtained when they were additionally cured in water at 60 degrees C and then stored in the distilled water at least 1 day. For the microwave-polymerized resins, the lowest residual MMA content was obtained when they were stored in the distilled water at least 1 month. The lowest overall residual MMA content was obtained from heat-polymerized specimens that were given a long-term terminal boil cure and then stored in the distilled water at least 1 day. Different polymerization methods and curing processes have different effects on residual MMA content. It is thus shown that storing a dental acrylic resin specimen in distilled water at 37 degrees C is a simple but effective method of reducing its residual MMA content.