Effect of microwave polymerization on the thermomechanical and surface properties of ocular prosthetic acrylic resins.

Background: Polymerization conditions affect the physical-mechanical properties of acrylic resins used for craniofacial prostheses.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of microwave polymerization on the thermomechanical properties and surface morphology of ocular prostheses fabricated with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

Methods: PMMA discs were polymerized with microwave energy and with conventional heat polymerization (CHP) method.

Surface degradation and biofilm formation on hybrid and nanohybrid composites after immersion in different liquids.

Purpose: This study evaluated the association of surface degradation and formation of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) biofilm in resin-based composites (RBCs) after storage in different acidic liquids.

Methods: To evaluate microhardness and surface micromorphology, hybrid and nanohybrid RBC discs were stored in artificial gastric acid, cola drink, orange juice, artificial saliva, and distilled water for three intervals of 15 min per day for 7, 15, and 30 days.

Effect of dental restorative materials surface roughness on the in vitro biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans biofilm.

Purpose: To evaluate Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation over different restorative dental materials.

Methods: Using a bioreactor over 72 hours, four commercially available ceramics were evaluated: IPS E-max Press, IPS E-max CAD, Lava Ultimate CAD-CAM, Vita Enamic and two resin composites (SR Nexco Paste and Brilliant NG). The results were evaluated using atomic force microscopy and confocal microscopy, the biofilm was stained and the arbitrary fluorescence units (AFU) quantified.