Flexural Properties of a Denture Acrylic Resin Reinforced with Basalt Fibers

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Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is the most widely used material for fabricating removable partial or complete dentures; however, it has a relatively low fracture resistance. To overcome the low fracture resistance of PMMA, several ways are used for reinforcement. The conventional method involves the use of metal wires, plates or stainless steel mesh as strengtheners of denture base polymers. PMMA resins with either organic or inorganic fibers have been tested as suitable materials for prosthodontics. Fibers used in polymerfiber composites include glass fibers, sapphire whiskers, aramid fibers, carbon fibers, Nylon, or ultra-highmodulus polyethylene fibers. The inclusion of metal wires and plate reinforcements enhances the strength of PMMA , and decreases the likelihood of denture fractures caused by strong biting or impact forces.