Search

Aim Assessment of flexural strength values of dental base polymers reinforced with different glass fibers ("dental" and "industrial" origin) after performed artificial ageing procedures. Methods Three hundred specimens (dimensions 18 x 10 x 3 ram) were produced of denture base polymers reinforced with different glass fibers. The "short beam" testing method was used to determine the flexural strength of the specimens after polymerization, immersion in water of temperature 37°C for 28 days, and thermo-cycling. Results Flexural strength of the polymer specimens was 91.76- 122.75 MPa, while specimens reinforced with glass fibers demonstrated rise of flexural strength values ( 103.10-163.88 M Pa), no matter which type ("dental" or "industrial") of fibers was used. Microscopic examination revealed partial bonding between the glass fibers and polymer material. Conclusion Both of the investigated glass fibers had similar strengthening effect, but due to better investment/benefit ratio "industrial" glass fibers could be recommended for dental laboratory use. Prolonged polymerization of denture base materials should be proposed because it had direct impact on the improvement of flexural strength values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To reveal patients' satisfaction with their old, usually poorly fitting dentures and the effect of denture relining to the patient's satisfaction. Methods Thirty-seven denture wearers participated in study by filling out questionnaires about their satisfaction with dentures before and after relining. In that way the data indicating the subjective patient's experience and satisfaction were collected. Results Relined removable dentures included in study were on average 5.52 years (upper) or 4.86 years old (lower). Most of study participants (57%) were satisfied with their poor fitting dentures. Statistically significant was correlation between chewing discomfort and satisfaction, and the time elapsed from last tooth extraction to denture production. As this period was shorter, chewing discomfort was greater and satisfaction with chewing lower. Majority (53.3%) of denture wearers were considerably more satisfied with the chewing ability and felt better regarding the chewing discomfort after denture relining. Minority of the patients (22%) still used an adhesive for fixing the dentures after relining. Conclusion Denture relining affects, patient's satisfaction with their dentures. After relining patient's masticatory function was improved, satisfaction with chewing ability and comfort were greater, and denture hygiene better. Denture relining should be performed in order to improve denture fitting to a denture bearing area, thus positively affecting patient's satisfaction with his denture(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]