Research Article
Fatma Unalan, Idil Dikbas, Ozl
Abstract
Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the reinforcing effect of different types and concentrations of E-glass fibres on the transverse strength of denture base material. Methods: Ninety-one specimens of a heat-cured acrylic resin (65 mm x 10 mm x 2.5 mm) were prepared by modifying the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) with the addition of different concentrations (2.5%, 3%, 4%, and 5%) of three types of E-glass fibres (chopped strand mat, woven, and continuous fibres). Transverse strength testing was performed using a three-point bending test machine. For statistical analysis, the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's multiple comparison test were used. Results: Mean transverse strength of control specimens was 90.71±2.73 MPa. The addition of 5% chopped strand mat glass fibre showed the highest mean transverse strength (131.17±8.23 MPa). Transverse strength values of continuous glass fibre-added groups at all concentrations were higher than that of control group. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The addition of chopped strand mat glass fibre was the most effective method to improve transverse strength of PMMA denture base resin.