Comparative analysis of polishing protocols on microhardness and surface roughness of occlusal device materials fabricated using microwave-polymerized acrylic or 3D printed resins.

Statement Of Problem: With advancements in digital technologies, the digital workflow has revolutionized the fabrication of occlusal devices through additive methods using 3-dimensional (3D) printing. However, an established protocol for polishing 3D printed occlusal devices is lacking, despite this step being crucial for minimizing surface porosity, material fatigue and preventing bacterial plaque accumulation, thereby contributing to device longevity.

Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the impact of polishing systems on the surface roughness and Vickers microhardness of heat-polymerizing acrylic resin and 3D printing resins used for occlusal devices.

Viscoelastic Properties of Human Facial Skin and Comparisons with Facial Prosthetic Elastomers.

Prosthesis discomfort and a lack of skin-like quality is a source of patient dissatisfaction with facial prostheses. To engineer skin-like replacements, knowledge of the differences between facial skin properties and those for prosthetic materials is essential. This project measured six viscoelastic properties (percent laxity, stiffness, elastic deformation, creep, absorbed energy, and percent elasticity) at six facial locations with a suction device in a human adult population equally stratified for age, sex, and race.

Prevalence of self-reported symptoms of temporomandibular disorders and associated factors in the period of distance learning.

Objective: Assess the prevalence of self-reported TMD symptoms and anxiety and check the quality of sleep and life during the distance learning period in university students at the University of Brasilia (UnB).

Materials And Methods: The participants were students from the Health Sciences College and Medicine College at UnB. Self-administered questionnaires were used to evaluate symptoms of TMD, quality of life, and sleep quality.