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Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II

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A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2024) | Viewed by 4276

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Special Issue Editor

Dr. Evangelia Vouvoudi

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Guest Editor

Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: chemistry of novel epoxy molecules and hardeners used in cross-linked dhesives for cultural conservation and glass restoration; polymerization kinetics and DC% calculations on macromolecules’ reactions for epoxy curing via instrumental techniques; physicochemical, thermal, mechanical, colorimetric properties and spectroscopic characterization of cured materials; influence of filling materials on the mechanical properties of polymer composites; evaluation of their degradation process
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

If field scientists and technicians were called upon to summarize the essential advances of the present and the future trends in dentistry, with regard to the materials applied and studied for restorations, prosthetics, and other special applications, polymeric materials would most definitely be the chosen material. Homopolymers and copolymers, depending on their chemical structure (often cross-linked structure for durability), provide a wide range of properties to meet requirements. When polymers alone do not easily meet these needs, polymeric composites are used as reinforcements. Thus, as the title indicates, the evolution of all kinds of polymeric materials for dental applications is the scope of the current Special Issue.

Polymeric materials are often present in dental restorations (direct and indirect), dental prostheses, therapeutic treatments or impression applications, with the first category prevailing in number. Each of these classes is of great depth in order to cope with the respective disease.

Nanocomposites or hybrid biomaterials are cutting-edge products that have proven their usefulness in many cases, while photopolymerization or self-polymerization are dominant when it comes to curing. Clinical tests, monomer detection, biocompatibility parameters, and further standard compliance are indispensable in studies of dental polymeric materials.

On the success of "Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications ", a previous Special Issue of Polymers (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/polymers/special_issues/overviews_progress_poly_dental), we are pleased to open a second volume of this Special Issue and continue to collect the recent developments in dental polymeric materials.

Dr. Evangelia Vouvoudi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

polymeric composite biomaterials
polydimethacrylate resins
dental restorations and prostheses
dental decay
bis-GMA
PMMA
cross-linked polymers
photopolymerization
nanomaterials

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 7383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Color and Chemical Stability of 3D-Printed and Thermoformed Polyurethane-Based Aligners

by Luka Šimunović, Sara Čekalović Agović, Antun Jakob Marić, Ivana Bačić, Eva Klarić, Flavio Uribe and Senka Meštrović

Polymers 2024, 16(8), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16081067 - 11 Apr 2024

Viewed by 541

Abstract

The significant rise in the use of clear aligners for orthodontic treatment is attributed to their aesthetic appeal, enhancing patient appearance and self-confidence. The aim of this study is to evaluate the aligners’ response to common staining agents (coffee, black tea, Coca-Cola, and Red Bull) in color and chemical stability. Polyurethane-based thermoformed and 3D-printed aligners from four brands were exposed to common beverages to assess color change using a VITA Easyshade compact colorimeter after 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, and 7 days, as well as chemical stability using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. The brand, beverage, and manufacturing method significantly influence color stability. ATR-FTIR analysis revealed compositional differences, with variations in response to beverage exposure affecting the integrity of polymer bonds. Color change analysis showed coffee as the most potent staining agent, particularly affecting Tera Harz TC85 aligners, while ClearCorrect aligners exhibited the least susceptibility. 3D-printed aligners showed a greater color change compared to thermoformed ones. Aligners with a PETG outer layer are more resistant to stains and chemical alterations than those made of polyurethane. Additionally, 3D-printed polyurethane aligners stain more than thermoformed ones. Therefore, PETG-layered aligners are a more reliable choice for maintaining the aesthetic integrity of aligners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II)

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14 pages, 6935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Effect of Cetylpyridinium Chloride Addition on the Antibacterial Activity and Surface Hardness of Resin-Based Dental Composites

by Sara Khan, Faiza Amin, Rafat Amin and Naresh Kumar

Polymers 2024, 16(5), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16050588 - 21 Feb 2024

Viewed by 718

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) addition on the antibacterial and surface hardness characteristics of two commercial resin-based dental composites (RBDCs). A total of two hundred and seventy (n = 270) specimens from Filtek Z250 Universal and Filtek Z350 XT flowable RBDCs were fabricated with the addition of CPC at 2 %wt and 4 %wt concentrations to assess their antibacterial activity using the agar diffusion test and direct contact inhibition test, and their surface hardness using the Vickers microhardness test after 1 day, 30 days, and 90 days of aging. A surface morphology analysis of the specimens was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The RBDCs that contained 2 %wt and 4 %wt CPC demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans up to 90 days, with the highest activity observed for the 4 %wt concentration. Nevertheless, there was a reduction in antibacterial effectiveness over time. Moreover, compared to the control (0 %wt) and 2 %wt CPC groups, the universal RBDCs containing 4 %wt CPC exhibited a notable decrease in surface hardness, while all groups showed a decline in hardness over time. In conclusion, the satisfactory combination of the antibacterial effect and surface hardness property of RBDCs was revealed with the addition of a 2 %wt CPC concentration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II)

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19 pages, 13167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shear Strength of Repaired 3D-Printed and Milled Provisional Materials Using Different Resin Materials with and without Chemical and Mechanical Surface Treatment

by Harisha Dewan, Mohammed E. Sayed, Asayil Jundus, Mafaz Gharawi, Safeyah Baeshen, Maimonah Alali, Mai Almarzouki, Hossam F. Jokhadar, Saad Saleh AlResayes, Mohammed H. D. Al Wadei, Abdulaziz Thubab, Mohammed Jabril Abu Illah and Alkhansa Moafa

Polymers 2023, 15(21), 4284; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15214284 - 31 Oct 2023

Viewed by 986

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the shear bond strength of 3D-printed and milled provisional restorations using various resin materials and surface finishes. There were 160 preliminary samples in all, and they were split into two groups: the milled group and the 3D-printed group. Based on the resin used for repair (composite or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)) and the type of surface treatment utilized (chemical or mechanical), each group was further divided into subgroups. The specimens were subjected to thermocycling from 5 °C to 55 °C for up to 5000 thermal cycles with a dwell time of 30 s. The mechanical qualities of the repaired material underwent testing for shear bond strength (SBS). To identify the significant differences between the groups and subgroups, a statistical analysis was carried out. Three-way ANOVA was used to analyze the effects of each independent component (the material and the bonding condition), as well as the interaction between the independent factors on shear bond strength. Tukey multiple post-hoc tests were used to compare the mean results for each material under various bonding circumstances. The shear bond strengths of the various groups and subgroups differed significantly (p < 0.05). When compared to the milled group, the 3D-printed group had a much greater mean shear bond strength. When compared to PMMA repair, the composite resin material showed a noticeably greater shear bond strength. In terms of surface treatments, the samples with mechanical and chemical surface treatments had stronger shear bonds than those that had not received any. The results of this study demonstrate the effect of the fabrication method, resin type, and surface treatment on the shear bond strength of restored provisional restorations. Particularly when made using composite material and given surface treatments, 3D-printed provisional restorations showed exceptional mechanical qualities. These results can help dentists choose the best fabrication methods, resin materials, and surface treatments through which to increase the durability and bond strength of temporary prosthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II)

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16 pages, 2711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fluoride Release and Rechargeability of Poly(lactic acid) Composites with Glass Ionomer Cement

by Sudarat Wongphattarakul, Rungroj Kuson, Thanapat Sastraruji and Kullapop Suttiat

Polymers 2023, 15(20), 4041; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15204041 - 10 Oct 2023

Viewed by 793

Abstract

This study investigates the fluoride release, rechargeability and degradation behaviors of newly developed anticariogenic poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites. The PLA composite with various concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% by weight) of glass ionomer cement (GIC) and sodium fluoride (NaF) were prepared using solvent casting method. The fluoride release, fluoride rechargeability and degradation behavior were evaluated. All experimental groups demonstrated fluoride-releasing ability. The highest level of fluoride ions released was found in PLA composite with sodium fluoride (PLA/NaF). Following the 28-day period, both groups showed a gradual reduction in fluoride ion released, ranging between 0.03 ± 0.01 and 0.53 ± 0.06 ppm, although remaining within the effective range for tooth remineralization. However, the rechargeability was only observed in PLA composite with GIC (PLA/GIC). Following an eight-week in vitro degradation test, all PLA/NaF groups displayed a significantly higher percentage of weight change and water absorption compared to the PLA/GIC and the control group. In SEM analysis, the formation of surface porosities was clearly noticed in all PLA/NaF. All specimens retained their structural integrity throughout the study. In conclusion, the newly developed PLA/GIC displays promising possibilities as an anticariogenic material. Furthermore, the rechargeability of these ions are repeatable, ensuring their long-term utility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II)

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Review

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20 pages, 1380 KiB

Open AccessReview

Comparative Analysis of the Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility between CAD/CAM and Conventional Polymers Applied in Prosthetic Dentistry

by Bozhana Chuchulska, Mariya Dimitrova, Angelina Vlahova, Ilian Hristov, Zlatina Tomova and Rada Kazakova

Polymers 2024, 16(7), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16070877 - 22 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 704

Abstract

Modern media often portray CAD/CAM technology as widely utilized in the fabrication of dental prosthetics. This study presents a comparative analysis of the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) polymers and conventional polymers commonly utilized in prosthetic dentistry. With the increasing adoption of CAD/CAM technology in dental laboratories and practices, understanding the differences in material properties is crucial for informed decision-making in prosthodontic treatment planning. Through a narrative review of the literature and empirical data, this study evaluates the mechanical strength, durability, esthetics, and biocompatibility of CAD/CAM polymers in comparison to traditional polymers. Furthermore, it examines the implications of these findings on the clinical outcomes and long-term success of prosthetic restorations. The results provide valuable insights into the advantages and limitations of CAD/CAM polymers, informing clinicians and researchers about their suitability for various dental prosthetic applications. This study underscores the considerable advantages of CAD/CAM polymers over conventional ones in terms of mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and esthetics for prosthetic dentistry. CAD/CAM technology offers improved mechanical strength and durability, potentially enhancing the long-term performance of dental prosthetics, while the biocompatibility of these polymers makes them suitable for a broad patient demographic, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. The practical implications of these findings for dental technicians and dentists are significant, as understanding these material differences enables tailored treatment planning to meet individual patient needs and preferences. Integration of CAD/CAM technology into dental practices can lead to more predictable outcomes and heightened patient satisfaction with prosthetic restorations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Overviews on the Progress of Polymeric Materials for Dental Applications II)

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