Comparative study on biomechanical behavior of zirconia and polyetheretherketone biomaterials exposed to experimental loading conditions in a prototypal simulator.

Zirconia and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are two biomaterials widely investigated as substitute for metals in oral prosthetic rehabilitation. To achieve a proper biomechanical behavior, the prosthetic biomaterials must ensure a good resistance to loads, as this is a crucial characteristic enabling their use in dental applications. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in the fracture resistance of different biomaterials in an experimental environment: fixed partial dentures (FPDs) screwed in a prototype of biomimetic mandible.