Mechanical properties of a last generation glass polymer: An experimental study [Determinazione dei parametri di un nuovo vetropolimero studio sperimentale]

INTRODUCTION. Research of new dental materials has developed a new class of composites polymers for both traditional and implant prosthesis. These materials may be divided in two groups: a) first generation composites with a prevailing volume percentage of resinous matrix (2/3 matrix - 1/3 filler); b) second generation composites with a prevailing volume percentage of filler (2/3 filler 1/3 matrix). AIM OF THE WORK. To define the mechanical properties of a new second generation composite according to current specific requirements (ISO 10477), in order to perform a comparative analysis with other glass polymers available on the market. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Mechanical tests were performed on material samples prepared according the metal-free technique in order to identify their most suitable clinical indication. Four samples were prepared with the same colour (dentinal mass A3); any layer was 1 mm thick and was polymerised for 75 seconds. Finally the samples we-re coated with a glicerine-base gel and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 48 hours. RESULTS. The new material showed to be isotropic, i.e. its atomical lattice is uniform. CONCLUSIONS. After analyzing the results the Authors conclude that the new material, thanks to its mechanical properties, is indicated whenever the prosthetic framework must be very elastic and able to resist to functional loads without failure risks.