Water Absorption, Surface Roughness And Flexural Strength Assessment Of Peek With And Without Aging.
Advisor(s)
Ramtin Sadid-Zadeh
Committee Member(s)
Chin Chuan Fu
Javed Amjad
Nathenial Lawson
School
School of Dentistry
Document Type
Thesis
Department (new version)
Dentistry
Date of Award
9-11-2025
Abstract
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) has been the primary material for complete denture bases since its introduction in 1936 due to its esthetics, affordability, and ease of processing. However, PMMA demonstrates well-documented shortcomings, including relatively low flexural strength, high water absorption, and susceptibility to surface wear. These limitations lead to fractures, loss of occlusal vertical dimension (OVD), frequent relines, and compromised esthetics. Even advanced formats such as CAD-CAM milled and 3D printed PMMA remain prone to dimensional instability, microbial colonization, and long-term degradation. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a high-performance thermoplastic originally used in orthopedic and spinal implants, has recently been introduced into dentistry as an alternative denture base material. Its favorable properties include superior flexural strength, enhanced microhardness, low water absorption, chemical inertness, and reduced microbial adherence. Ceramic-reinforced (CR) PEEK further enhances surface polishability and esthetic stability, though its clinical performance as a complete denture base material remains underexplored. This in vitro study compared CR PEEK with three PMMA variants—heat polymerized, CAD-CAM milled, and 3D printed—across parameters critical to denture longevity. Standardized specimens were evaluated for flexural strength, surface roughness, and water absorption/solubility before and after a 28-day water immersion aging protocol. Flexural strength was assessed using ISO three-point bending tests, while roughness was measured pre- and post-polishing to reflect microbial adhesion thresholds. Statistical analysis tested whether CR PEEK significantly outperformed PMMA variants. It is hypothesized that CR PEEK will demonstrate greater flexural strength, lower water absorption, and smoother polished surfaces than PMMA materials. Validation of these findings would position CR PEEK as a clinically superior denture base, offering improved longevity, OVD preservation, reduced maintenance, and enhanced patient satisfaction. Its compatibility with digital workflows further supports integration into modern prosthodontic practice.
ProQuest ID
Recommended Citation
Daundakr, Pranjal Ramchandra, "Water Absorption, Surface Roughness And Flexural Strength Assessment Of Peek With And Without Aging." (2025). All ETDs from UAB. 7427.
https://digitalcommons.library.uab.edu/etd-collection/7427
