Fracture Resistance of Space Maintainers Produced Using 3D Printable Materials

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ABSTRACT

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the fracture resistance of space maintainers (SMs) produced using 3D-printable materials (metal, resin and polyetheretherketone [PEEK]) after thermal aging and compare them with conventional space maintainers.

Methods

A standardised typodont model for paediatric dentistry was utilised, and band and loop space maintainers were designed digitally using computer-aided design (CAD) technology. Four groups were established: Conventional, 3D printed metal, 3D printed resin, and 3D printed PEEK. Fracture resistance was assessed after 10,000 thermal cycles, simulating oral conditions. Fracture tests were conducted using a universal testing machine, applying vertical force to the band and loop junction until fracture. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test (P<0.05).

Results

3D printed metal SMs showed the highest maximum loading force with 922.35 ± 145.43 N. (p<0.001). The maximum loading force for the 3D printed PEEK, conventional, and 3D printed resin groups were 262.34 ± 41.50 N, 188.86 ± 63.40 N, and 183.99 ± 84.41 N, respectively. There was no significant difference between the three groups (PEEK, conventional, and resin group) (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Although the fracture resistance values showed that metal, resin, and PEEK 3D printed band and loop space maintainers can be acceptable clinically, the permanent resin may be preferable to printable material because of their aesthetic properties.

PLUMX METRICS