Camilar Maria, Tibeica Andreea, Curca Razvan, Agop-Forna Doriana, Cretu Ionut Cosmin, Adam Eduard, Forna Norina
ABSTRACT
Aim of the study. The purpose of this literature review was to evaluate contemporary hybrid acrylic materials and modern thermoplastic polymers used in removable prosthodontics, with particular emphasis on their mechanical, physical, and biological properties. The review focuses on recent approaches developed to overcome the limitations of conventional polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base materials.
Material and methods. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and NIH databases. The search strategy included the following keywords: acrylic resin, PMMA, nanoparticles, denture base reinforcement, fiber-reinforced acrylic resin, BioHPP, PEEK, acetal resin, and thermoplastic denture materials. Original research articles, review papers, and relevant scientific publications published in recent years were analyzed.
Results. The reviewed studies demonstrated that the incorporation of reinforcing agents such as zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), silicon dioxide (SiO₂) nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and various fibers significantly improves the mechanical performance of PMMA. These modifications increase flexural strength, fracture resistance, impact resistance, and durability. Modern thermoplastic materials, including polyamide, acetal resin, PEEK, and BioHPP, offer additional advantages such as improved biocompatibility, flexibility, esthetics, and patient comfort.
Conclusions. The incorporation of fibers, fillers, nanoparticles, and hybrid reinforcement systems represents an effective strategy for enhancing the performance of conventional acrylic denture base materials. Modern thermoplastic polymers constitute promising alternatives to PMMA and contribute to the development of more durable, esthetic, and biologically compatible removable dental prostheses.