A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF PEEK-REINFORCED PMMA FOR PROVISIONAL RESTORATIONS FABRICATED USING 3D PRINTING AND TRADITIONAL METHODS – AN IN VITRO ANALYSIS.

Authors: Dilip Jayyarapu, Deepa Mamidi, Nirmal kumar Gandavaram, Sowjanya Jinka, Sneha Gontu

Keywords: 3D printing,autopolymerized pmma,Flexural strength,heat polymerized pmma,in vitro study,PEEK,PMMA reinforcement,polymethylmethacrylate resin PMMA,Post tooth preparation temporary prosthesis,provisional restorations

Abstract: AIM: To compare the flexural strength of PEEK-Reinforced PMMA in provisional restorations produced through 3D printing and traditional fabrication methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 tooth-colored PMMA acrylic resin samples, each measuring 65 mm × 10 mm × 2.5 mm, were prepared. These samples were equally divided into three groups, with 10 specimens in each: Group I (Autopolymerized PMMA with 3 wt% PEEK), Group II (Heat Polymerized PMMA with 3 wt% PEEK), and Group III (3D Printed PMMA with 3 wt% PEEK). The flexural strength of the specimens was assessed using a three-point bending test on a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, followed by intergroup comparisons with the POSTHOC Bonferroni test. RESULTS: The highest mean flexural strength was observed in Group I (70.96 MPa), followed by Group II (55.27 MPa) and Group III (30.34 MPa). One-way ANOVA indicated a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) among the groups. Pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) between all groups, except between Group I (Autopolymerized PMMA) and Group II (Heat polymerized PMMA), where no significant difference was observed. CONCLUSION: PEEK proves to be a viable reinforcement material for provisional restorations. Autopolymerized PMMA resin enhanced with PEEK offers an alternative treatment option, particularly suitable for patients with significant occlusal forces or those with a history of provisional restoration fractures.