J Adv Prosthodont.  2023 Oct;15(5):227-237. 10.4047/jap.2023.15.5.227.

Effect of artificial aging on mechanical and physical properties of CAD-CAM PMMA resins for occlusal splints

• Raffaini JC
• Soares EJ
• Oliveira RFdL
• Vivanco RG
• Amorim AA
• Pereira ALC
• Pires-de-Souza FCP

• KMID: 2547404
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4047/jap.2023.15.5.227

Abstract

PURPOSE
. This study aimed to assess and compare the color stability, flexural strength (FS), and surface roughness of occlusal splints fabricated from heatcured acrylic resin, milled polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-based resin, and 3D-printed (PMMA) based-resin.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
. Samples of each type of resin were obtained, and baseline measurements of color and surface roughness were recorded. The specimens were divided into three groups (n = 10) and subjected to distinct aging protocols: thermomechanical cycling (TMC), simulated brushing (SB), and control (without aging). Final assessments of color and surface roughness and three-point bending test (ODM100; Odeme) were conducted, and data were statistically analyzed (2-way ANOVA, Tukey, P <.05).
RESULTS
. Across all resin types, the most significant increase in surface roughness (Ra) was observed after TMC (P < .05), with the 3D-printed resin exhibiting the lowest Ra (P < .05). After brushing, milled resin displayed the highest Ra (P < .05) and greater color alteration (∆E₀₀ ) compared to 3D-printed resin. The most substantial ∆E₀₀ was recorded after brushing for all resins, except for heat-cured resin subjected to TMC. Regardless of aging, milled resin exhibited the highest FS (P < .05), except when compared to 3D-printed resin subjected to TMC. Heat-cured resin exposed to TMC demonstrated the lowest FS, different (P < .05) from the control. Under control conditions, milled resin exhibited the highest FS, different (P < .05) from the brushed group. 3D-printed resin subjected to TMC displayed the highest FS (P< .05).
CONCLUSION
. Among the tested resins, 3D-printed resin demonstrated superior longevity, characterized by minimal surface roughness and color alterations. Aging had a negligible impact on its mechanical properties.

Keyword

Computer-Aided Design; Occlusal splints; Color; Flexural strength; Polymethyl Metacrylate; Aging