Could the Old Poly(methylmethacrylate) Face Arrising Challanges of New Advanced Technologies for Dental Prosthesis Manufacturing?

Abstract

The biocompatibility, relatively low cost and excellent aesthetic appearance of polymer Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) makes it the material of choice for fabricating partially and complete dentures. Nowadays the emerging 3D printing technique imposed itself as reliable solution for obtaining dental devices. However, extensive usage of such technique is still limited due to the materials available. Despite PMMA�s drawbacks, mainly related to bacterial contamination, wear and mechanical failures, composite polymeric matrix has issued high interest lately. An important improvement in basic material properties have been achieved due to the inclusion of nanosystems, either nanoparticles or nanotubes. The newly shown versatility of reinforced PMMA sustains it as the best alternative for stereolithography (3D printing) technique. This paper highlights the improvements of PMMA by adding different type of nanofillers. Therefore, prospective randomized clinical in vivo studies with the use of biocompatible tested modified filled PMMA and modern technologies should be performed.