Selected Mechanical Properties of Dental Hybrid Composite with Fluorine, Hydroxyapatite and Silver Fillers

Abstract

In recent years, hydroxyapatite, as a ceramic material, has been a subject of growing interest due to its optimal biological properties, which are useful especially in medical and dental applications. It has been increasingly used in dentistry as a filler in composites. Nevertheless, research has shown a deterioration of their mechanical properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the content of hydroxyapatite together with fluorine and silver on the mechanical properties of a hybrid composite used in conservative dentistry. The authors compared specimens of commercial hybrid composite with specimens of experimental hybrid composite containing 2 wt% and 5 wt% of hydroxyapatite powder with fluorine and silver. The composite specimens were subjected to hardness and impact strength measurements, as well as bending, compression, and tribological wear tests. The research results indicate that the mechanical properties of composites are influenced by the type and amount of filler used. Composite containing 2 wt% of hydroxyapatite powder along with calcium fluoride and silver provided acceptable results.