In vitro Mechanical Testing of Glass Fiber-reinforced Composite Used as Dental Implants

Abstract

Abstract Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the design of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) on some mechanical properties of a dental implant. Methods and Materials FRC implants were fabricated using different polymerization conditions and designs of the glass-fiber structure. Specimens were tested with a cantilever bending test and a torsional test. The degree of monomer conversion (DC%) was measured using a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results Statistical analysis showed significant differences between groups revealing mean fracture load values from 437 N to 1461 N. The mean torsional force in fracture varied from 0.01 to 1.66 Nm. The DC% varied from 50% to 90%. Conclusion This study suggests by modifying the polymerization conditions and fiber orientation of FRC implants, the biomechanical properties of an FRC can be tailored to the needs of dental implants. Citation Ballo AM, Lassila LV, Närhi TO, Vallittu PK. In vitro Mechanical Testing of Glass Fiber-reinforced Composite Used as Dental Implants. J Contemp Dent Pract 2008 February;(9)2:041-048.