A comparative study to evaluate the effect of polyethylene and polypropylene fibers  reinforcement on the flexural  strength of denture base resin - an in vitro study

Dr. Keshav Mundra; Dr. Gunjan Chouksey

Volume : V, Issue : IV, April - 2016

A comparative study to evaluate the effect of polyethylene and polypropylene fibers reinforcement on the flexural strength of denture base resin - an in vitro study

Dr. Keshav Mundra, Dr. Gunjan Chouksey

Abstract :

<p>&nbsp;Background and Objectives: Reinforcement of denture base resin may offer significant advantages in clinical performance of the material, especially fracture toughness. Fiber reinforcement has been used to overcome the mechanical limitations of denture base polymers. Reinforcement with various fiber types should strengthen acrylic denture bases. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect polyethylene and polypropylene fiber reinforcement on the flexural strength of denture base resin. Materials and Methods: Samples were divided into 3 groups, Control group (A) made of conventional heat cure denture base resin and the Test Groups B made of Conventional heat cure denture base resin reinforced with 2% by weight of Polyethylene fie and Test Group C made of Conventional heat cure denture base resin reinforced with 2% by weight of Polypropylene fie. The fibers were immersed in a beaker with monomer liquid for better adhesion with the resin matrix. Mixing was done incrementally for thorough dispersion of fibers. Once the mix reached the dough consistency, it was kneaded by hand to increase its homogeneity and integrity and then packed in the mold space prepared by using metal die with dimensions of 65mm x 10mm x 3mm. All the samples were processed by the curing cycle as recommended by the manufacturer. All the samples were stored in water at 37&plusmn;1 0C for 50&plusmn;2 hours prior to testing. The fracture tests were carried out using a Universal testing machine. One-way ANOVA test was used for multiple group comparison followed by Tukey&rsquo;s Post Hoc test for pair-wise comparison during statistical analysis. Results: Incorporation of Polyethylene and Polypropylene fibers significantly reduce the flexural strength of Denture base resin. Interpretation and Conclusion: Incorporation of Polyethylene and Polypropylene fibers failed to assist in strength of conventional denture base resin.</p>